The Microsoft AR headset HoloLens 2 gets a free, optional upgrade to Windows 11, which should be available to all users by the end of June. The upgrade aims to improve app performance and make it easier to integrate new technologies into existing apps.

HoloLens 2 users can still run the headset with Windows 10. Nevertheless, Microsoft lists some advantages of the upgrade in a blog post. For example, Windows 11 offers better performance and the upgrade includes important additions for developers. “The upgrade provides platform support that ensures users can be assured of continued device security,” writes Robin Seiler, VP at Windows, in the post.

Edge WebView2

In terms of content, the upgrade does not seem to bring any major user-oriented changes. Nevertheless, the additions for developers should not be underestimated. For example, Microsoft gives them access to the Edge WebView2 control, which allows them to easily implement HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in their apps. This feature aims to improve web-based apps. It’s roughly the same control that Microsoft Teams is moving toward.

Microsoft has also improved the Dynamics 365 Guides annotation feature, which allows users to apply 3D drawings during video calls. There will be a “restricted mode” to allow businesses better control over the mixed reality apps running on the HoloLens 2. “This is important because it helps companies prevent unauthorized access to confidential information and sensitive data,” said Seiler.

No HoloLens 3?

What does this upgrade mean for a possible successor? In December, Microsoft appeared to be teasing about a possible HoloLens 3. But early on, the company made significant cuts in several areas, including HoloLens. A journalist from The Verge recently heard that Microsoft is evaluating the possibilities for a next-gen HoloLens. It is not clear if and when there will be a real successor to the HoloLens 2.

In 2021, the US military signed a multi-billion dollar contract to produce thousands of headsets. After problems, including nausea, among soldiers, the US Congress decided not to buy the nearly 7,000 aircraft. Instead, Microsoft had to make adjustments and fix problems. According to reports, tests of this type are not planned until 2025.