Microsoft And Volkswagen Develop The World's Coolest Glasses

May. 07, 2022 8:02 AM ET by Karl Furlong Technology / 4 Comments

The mixed reality headset will change the way we interact with our cars and the world.

As cars become more advanced and digital than ever before, technology giants are increasingly joining forces with established automakers. Last year, Ford and Google signed a six-year deal to develop connected vehicle technologies, while Honda and Sony are gearing up to develop electric cars together. Not to be outdone, Microsoft has also been involved with automakers for some time. Last year, the company teamed up with Volkswagen to create self-driving technologies. Microsoft has now shed more light on its advanced HoloLens 2 project with VW. This device effectively puts augmented reality glasses in motion.

For use in a self-driving vehicle of the future, you will be able to view holographic displays with information like traffic conditions, weather, architectural highlights, and shopping recommendations. Specifically, it's the HoloLens 2 mixed reality headset that enables its use in a moving vehicle for the first time. This new technology opens up many more opportunities, such as being able to train drivers to take on difficult road conditions. Think of it as an evolution of augmented reality head-up displays that are already equipped in vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and VW's own ID. family of EVs, including the ID.4.

VW experimented with the HoloLens a few years ago but encountered an issue when the device was used in a moving vehicle. Here, its sensors couldn't track properly and the holograms it typically displayed vanished. It was then that VW approached Microsoft for help. HoloLens 2 was then developed, and a new algorithm was developed that allows the device's various sensors to continue working even in a moving environment.

Another use case for the technology comes from the maritime industry. Here, the HoloLens can remotely connect workers to mechanical engineers by sharing their views. Another engineer, from another location, can then diagnose the problem. Mercedes-Benz has already used the tech for this purpose. The tech can also be used in buses, trains, and elevators. Whether leaving your house or getting into your self-driving car, the companies view the technology as being seamlessly integrated into your life once it becomes even more refined.

Microsoft And Volkswagen Develop The World's Coolest Glasses

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Microsoft And Volkswagen Develop The World's Coolest Glasses

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