Microsoft to retire Windows Mixed Reality platform

Image: Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that it will shut down its Windows Mixed Reality platform, which was launched in 2017 as a competitor in the virtual reality market. The platform, which includes the Windows Mixed Reality software, the Mixed Reality Portal app, and the Steam VR app, will be removed from Windows in a future update.

Windows Mixed Reality was compatible with several VR headsets from different manufacturers, such as HP, Acer, Asus, and Samsung. The platform enabled users to access various games, experiences, and productivity apps in VR. However, the platform failed to gain enough popularity and support, as evidenced by the recent news.

The closure of Windows Mixed Reality does not affect Microsoft’s other mixed-reality product, the HoloLens 2. The HoloLens 2 is a business-oriented headset that runs on Windows 11. (Recently, Microsoft started shipping them out to the Army for combat training.) Microsoft has also confirmed its commitment to HoloLens and its future development, despite rumours of a halt in the HoloLens 3 project and a potential collaboration with Samsung on a new mixed-reality device.

Microsoft has also restructured its VR division, resulting in layoffs and the discontinuation of the AltspaceVR app. The company is still working on its own Mesh app, which allows users to interact in a virtual space without a headset.

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