Mobile World Congress: Microsoft HoloLens 2 leaked, ahead of launch
In a major surprise, the next-generation of Microsoft's HoloLens mixed-reality headset has leaked on the internet. The long-overdue update of the device, which launched four years ago, has shown up just hours before the official unveiling from Microsoft at the Mobile World Congress 2019. It looks fairly smaller than the original headset and may have some very interesting capabilities. Here are the details.
First up, what is Microsoft HoloLens?
For those unaware, HoloLens is Microsoft's wearable consumer technology for diving into the ocean of mixed reality. The headsets link real and augmented worlds by placing virtual characters or objects in our surroundings like a cartoon in the living room. Normally, the tech is used for gaming and other lighter purposes but uses for combat and military training have also been suggested in past.
Leak reveals press material for HoloLens 2
Just a few hours ago, four images revealing the HoloLens 2, the headset's next generation, were posted by Twitter user WalkingCat. The images appear to have come from the marketing material of the product but give an idea of what it would look like: compact with additional front padding for more comfort and a rear adjustment dial to keep the whole thing in place.
Microsoft HoloLens 2's leaked images
Enhanced gesture controls?
Apart from a compact and more comfortable design, the images don't really reveal much about the new headset. However, in one shot, a person is seen selecting a menu screen item with their finger while wearing the device. This seems to suggest that the new device may advance current air tap and bloom gestures to include advanced hand-tracking aimed at interacting with holograms directly.
What else we can see on HoloLens 2?
There's no word on the exact price or specifications of HoloLens 2, but going by previous reports, the headset is expected to show up with an improved field of view. Along with this, it may bring enhanced power and battery life with a Snapdragon 850 ARM processor and a custom version of Windows Core OS which would carry an interface for holographic computing.
Few hours left in official unveiling
You will have to wait a few more hours to have a complete look at HoloLens 2 and its capabilities. Microsoft's MWC press event starts at 6:00 pm CET, which is 10:30 pm in India.
