Microsoft’s first-gen HoloLens still enjoys a massive popularity, and it’s one of the first Mixed Reality handsets to run Windows 10 operating system. Microsoft is reportedly working on HoloLens 2, a new pair of mixed reality smartglasses powered by Windows 10, and it could be released next year.
The reports earlier this month suggested that the next-gen HoloLens is already in the works with a targeted release by Q1 of 2019, and it’s codenamed Sydney.
A new patent discovered by tech enthusiast Walking Cat suggests that the company will double the field of view (FOV) for the upcoming HoloLens.
It’s worth noting that the patent does not confirm that the next-gen HoloLens will indeed have a better FOV, but it does suggest that Microsoft is looking into ways to increase the FOV of the next generation HoloLens.
The patent “MEMS LASER SCANNER HAVING ENLARGED FOV”, was filed back in December 2016, explains how Microsoft could double the FOV of a mixed reality handset.
“A MEMS laser scanner is disclosed for use in a near-eye display including an increased field of view (FOV). In embodiments, one or more polarization gratings may be applied to the mirror of the MEMS laser scanner, which polarization gratings may be configured according to the Bragg regime. Using light of different polarizations, the MEMS laser scanner is able to expand the FOV without increasing the range over which the mirror of the scanner oscillates,” the patent explains.
MS patent "MEMS LASER SCANNER HAVING ENLARGED FOV" https://t.co/PZLatNZkNB also it mentions MicroVision PicoP pic.twitter.com/SJ1RjQvbn5
— WalkingCat (@h0x0d) June 25, 2018
What is clear, however, is that Microsoft is looking to improve the HoloLens in the virtual reality market.
Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 will reportedly launch next year
If the reports are believed to be true, the HoloLens 2 will feel much lighter, be more comfortable to wear. Interestingly, it will be also cheaper in price and it will have significantly improved holographic displays.
While the report suggests that the HoloLens 2 will be unveiled in O1, 2019 but it is not clear if the Q1 release date is for general availability or only developers.
It’s clear that Microsoft is looking to expand its role in the virtual reality market, and the same report revealed that the things might get interesting on the road in the coming years.
