Microsoft HoloLens 2

Developer	Microsoft
Predecessor	Microsoft HoloLens
Operating System	Windows Holographic
Resolution	2k 3:2 light engines
Image
Optics
Optics	See-through holographic lenses (waveguides)
IPD Range	Software adjustment
Tracking	6DOF, World-scale positional tracking
Rotational Tracking	Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer
Audio	microphone array of 5 channels, built-in spatial sound
Camera	4 visible light head tracking, 2 IR eye tracking
Connectivity	WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5, USB-C
Power	USB-PD for fast charging
Input	Hands, Eyes

The Microsoft HoloLens 2 is an augmented reality headset built by Microsoft that uses an optical see-through display. It is marketed for enterprise workers who use their hands and can't benefit from phones, tablets, or computers in the same way that other industries can. Microsoft is targeting corporations like auto shops or factory floors to re-imagine the work environment.

The HoloLens 2 has both hand and eye tracking capabilities. Hand tracking includes simplified gestures compared to the original HoloLens thanks to 25 points of articulation on each hand. Eye tracking includes the ability to pinpoint something with your eyes and verbalize commands, like closing a browser. Eye tracking is new to the HoloLens line. With a camera, the device can also scan your retina to authenticate you into the platform.

There are other notable improvements to the HoloLens 2 compared to the HoloLens. Not only can can it map the space you are in (spatial mapping), but it can understand the objects around you, like knowing that is a couch or a desk (semantic understanding of space). One reviewer noted it was more comfortable and easier to gesture, as well. The HoloLens 2 comes with a larger field of vision, though it's still significantly limited.

The HoloLens 2 also offers some new technology including the Azure Kinect DK and an ARM processor, mirroring a move across the tech industry away from Intel chips.

Another reviewer noted the memory of the HoloLens 2 - it can save your browser exactly where and how it was if you move or leave. It can also remember where you've placed annotation in your environment.

There are several different editions of the HoloLens 2:

• HoloLens 2 with Remote Assist
• HoloLens 2 Industrial Edition
• HoloLens 2 Industrial Edition with Remote Assist
• Trimble XR10 with HoloLens 2
• HoloLens 2 Development Edition

Release and Pricing

The HoloLens 2 started shipping on Nov 7, 2019 for $3,500. It was, and continues to be, an enterprise-only headset.

Hardware

In the Box

• HoloLens 2 device
• Carrying case
• Overhead strap
• Microfiber cloth
• Charger
• USB-C cable

Specs

• HPU: Second-generation custom-built holographic processing unit
• Memory: 4-GB LPDDR4x system DRAM
• Storage: 64-GB UFS 2.1

Setup Tutorial

You must have a Microsoft account to log in.

To fit the headset, you can dial the headset tighter or looser on the back. You can add an optional top band.

Input Devices

The HoloLens 2 tracks your hands and eyes. It does not come with a controller.

Accessories

On Microsoft's website, you can purchase a HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset for over-ear sounds with passive noise cancellation.

Apps

• Dynamic 365 Guides - includes templates to create instructions for repairing real-world things
• Azure Remote Rendering - offloads some computing to the cloud which enables you to surpass the storage and rendering limitations of the stand-alone headset
• Azure Spatial Anchors - lets you pin holograms to places in the real world
• Microsoft Mesh - allows you to visualize holograms of people in the same, shared, virtual space

Stores

You can purchase through the Microsoft Store, Insight, or SHI.

Developer

• Azure Kinect DK and other SDKs
• Azure Digital Twins
• Unity

Images

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History

• Spring 2021: HoloLens 2 Industrial Edition
• Nov 7 2019: HoloLens 2 Development Edition
• Nov 7 2019: HoloLens 2