The US Army is spending millions on developing a new Microsoft HoloLens headset
US Army spends big to fix previous headset following complaints
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
The US Congress has recently approved a $40 million spend on newMicrosoftHololens augmented reality headsets for the US Army following complaints from users.
The so-called Integrated Visual Augmentation Systems (IVAS) are designed to pull data from various sensors and databases to provide soldiers with real-time updates, as well as combining an augmented reality display with night vision aids.
A leaked report initially seen byBloombergnoted that the headsets, built on Microsoft’s HoloLens technology - were causing “mission-affecting physical impairments”, and for that, their adoption was low. Several users also complained about the light that was emitted from the goggles, which would compromise soldiers’ covertness.
US Army IVAS 1.2
Congress is reported to have denied the Army’s request to buy almost 7,000 headsets, worth up to $400 million, instead presenting a budget of around 10% of this, which will be used to develop a newer version, dubbed 1.2.
These are the best VR headsets around today>The US Army is now a Google Workspace customer>The US Army could soon be equipped with Microsoft Hololens
A statement by theArmynotes that in addition to the IVAS 1.1 improvements (which brought better low-light performance), and some software tweaks:“IVAS 1.2 will include a new form factor to address Human Systems Integration, including physiological impacts identified during testing, and a lower profile heads-up display with distributed counterweight for improved user interface and comfort.”
To date, testing has involved almost 100,000 hours of work by more than 1,000 participating soldiers.
Despite the apparent faux pas,Bloombergreported that the Army has already spent $125 million (plus the newly approved $40 million) on version 1.2. The Army said that it will continue to work with Microsoft as its IVAS partner, and that orders for the newer model will be placed “after qualification and operational testing”.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
Microsoft recently revealeda host of new features for its HoloLens 2augmented reality headset, one of which is the addition of its popularvideo conferencingservice Teams.
The update will bring full support forMicrosoft Teamstools and functions to HoloLens 2, including screen sharing, calendar coordination, and of course, live video calls and meetings.
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
LG Electronics sets ambitious B2B revenue goal to offset declining consumer demand
New fanless cooling technology enhances energy efficiency for AI workloads by achieving a 90% reduction in cooling power consumption
Phishing attacks surge in 2024 as cybercriminals adopt AI tools and multi-channel tactics
