Following its official last-time-to-buy announcement this week, Microsoft debuted the final major feature update for HoloLens 2 before its December discontinuation.
The device will receive minor security and stability updates until 2027. However, the most recent update will be the last, which fundamentally changes the way the framework behind the HoloLens 2 functions.
In an official statement, Microsoft stated:
On behalf of the entire HoloLens team, we thank our dedicated customers, partners, MVPs and developer community for helping to push the boundaries of the world of augmented reality for the past 8+ years.
Of the updates, the new HoloLens 2 build includes new system text size settings, which allow users to adjust the size of the start menu UI; additionally, the update includes new options to scale text up to 200%.
Moreover, with the new update, HoloLens 2 users can skip eye calibration set-up, streamlining first-time set-up procedures.
The updates also introduce two new applications to the headset. First, WinGet integration allows users to download Microsoft Store apps following the retirement of the storefront. Second, OneDrive PWA application HoloLens 2 integration brings users a new and improved cloud-sharing tool.
Alongside the large-scale updates, bug and security updates come to HoloLens 2. In addition to the features mentioned, bug fixes and security updates are also included in this release, echoing Microsoft’s commitment to keeping the device secure for business following the last time-to-buy period.
HoloLens 2 “Last Time to Buy”
Microsoft’s Hololens/Mixed Reality Partners are being offered “last time to buy” incentives for the HoloLens 2 device. Additionally, first-generation HoloLens devices are set to receive final updates soon.
Regarding the HoloLens 2, Microsoft introduced a “last time to buy” period, meaning they will sell the remaining units on a first-come, first-served basis. These devices will only be available directly from Microsoft or through official resellers. Warranty and customer/developer support will remain unchanged despite this announcement.
Although this news may seem like the end of the HoloLens 2, Microsoft plans to continue supporting the device through updates affecting security and major functionalities until December 31, 2027, including the most recent update.
In conjunction with the last-time-to-buy announcement, Microsoft informed its Hololens/Mixed Reality Partner community that the first-generation HoloLens headset will receive its final update on December 10, 2024.
This follows a multi-year Long-Term Servicing state for the legacy device that began in 2021. After the final update on December 10, 2024, HoloLens 1 devices will no longer receive security or software support. While the devices will still function, Microsoft recommends that users upgrade to the HoloLens 2.
Despite recent news surrounding HoloLens, Microsoft has filed a patent application that provides a potential first glimpse at a new pair of AR smart glasses. The two filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), titled “Composite Pores Estimate for Wearable Computing Device” and “Resolution Enhancement in Spatial-Frequency Space,” suggest that Microsoft is working on AR smart glasses that will incorporate Co-Pilot generative AI technology.
