Microsoft halts OS updates for the HoloLens 1

The first-gen HoloLens is considered a prototype device, and it looks like it’s going to be left behind. Microsoft announced in support documentation that this version will be entering a Long Term Servicing state and will not get any operating system updates. “Future updates will focus on issue and security fixes, while maintaining feature parity with the Windows 10 October 2018 release for HoloLens (also known as RSS).” This means that the features introduced in Windows 10 May 2019 Update onwards will not be coming to the device. Those updates will only be available on the HoloLens 2.

Source: MSPowerUser

Microsoft is being sued for ‘willfully’ ignoring holographic imaging patents

Microsoft’s HoloLens just ran into some legal issues in the US. The company’s mixed-reality device is at the center of a patent infringement lawsuit filed by HoloTouch for infringing on two of its patents. The tech is built to let users interact with holographic images. According to the Connecticut-based company, Microsoft “willfully” knew of and ignored HoloTouch’s patented technology, which have been dated back to over a decade already. The company is seeking a jury trial and triple damages (without the specific amount being outlined).

In the filing, it’s said HoloTouch first approached Microsoft back in 2006 for a partnership but never heard from them. Microsoft later on allegedly filed its own patent in 2013, which cited HoloTouch’s patents as “prior art,” meaning the company was aware of HoloTouch’s work. According to HoloTouch, they reached out again in 2015 and 2016 to discuss a licensing agreement for the patents but didn’t hear from Microsoft then either. If proven, this could cause some financial damage to Microsoft, especially with the company’s patents extending beyond the US to include Canada, Australia, the UK, and Japan.

Source: Engadget

Developer finds way to have a ‘shared reality’ with the HoloLens and Vive

A new proof of concept setup from software developer Drew Gottlieb reminds us that we’re no longer just limited to having a virtual or augmented reality experience. It’s possible to have a “shared reality” and he’s done this with the Microsoft HoloLens and HTC Vive. Having this setup brings the VR experience beyond just one user. The video above shows how he gets it to work with a 3D painting app similar to Tilt Brush. Aside from thinking about the possibilities this’ll bring into the gaming space, Gottlieb also demonstrates what this’ll mean for work collaboration in areas like the creative space.

Source: Engadget

Microsoft set to release VR headset details at December events

There won’t just be one event that’ll detail what we can expect from Microsoft’s virtual reality headsets. There will actually be two WinHEC events to be held on December 8 to 9 and December 14 to 15 where details on the VR headsets for Windows 10 will be talked about. The headsets are designed primarily for hardware manufacturers to showcase what the company plans to do software-wise for Windows Holographic. Microsoft partnered with the likes of HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo, and ASUS to create VR headsets that will plug into Windows 10 and provide the Windows Holographic shell and experience.

The first round of headsets and devices are expected to ship following the release in March of the Windows 10 Creators Update. These gadgets will debut with prices starting at US$299 and above. These first devices won’t be heavily focused on the mixed reality projections Microsoft is targeting with HoloLens. Instead these will be traditional VR headsets that support six degrees of freedom and inside-out tracking. VR experience will differ from product to product as well since they come with various prices and specs.

Source: The Verge