Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
MS Korea launches mixed reality headset HoloLens 2
Microsoft Korea CEO Lee Ji-eun holds the newly launched HoloLens 2, which enables mixed reality service through a head-mounted computer and see-through display. / Courtesy of MS Korea
By Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Microsoft Korea announced its launch of the Hololens 2 in the country, Monday, enabling a mixed reality service through a head-mounted computer and see-through display.
The HoloLens 2 is the world's first wearable holographic computer that does not need to be connected to a smartphone or PC, while providing an immersive MR experience.
The HoloLens 2 is different from other MR, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platforms as it uses 3D holograms and integrates the user's hand and voice interactions in real space in combination with artificial data.
The target market of the HoloLens 2 is the medical, educational and corporate markets which are in need of remote assistance.
According to Microsoft, the U.S. petrochemical company Chevron has implemented the HoloLens system and can share the manual and design information with the push of a button without physical contact between its field workers. With the increase of people working from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic, experts are able to connect with field workers to share critical information and help resolve problems remotely, every step of the way.
Among the corporations that have implemented the MR platform, 80 percent have recorded enhanced worker cooperation and efficiency, while it also increased productivity by 25 percent, according to Microsoft.
“The mixed reality gadgets will bring about greater change than the smartphone,” Microsoft Korea CEO Lee Ji-eun said.
The HoloLens 2 has twice the viewing angle of its predecessor, AI sensors, reduced weight through ultralight carbon fiber materials and the weight has been redistributed toward the back of the headset making it more comfortable to wear. The platform will make it possible for people to remotely aid large-scale projects and share critical information in real time.
The headset could allow workers to share project details with other team members via the Microsoft cloud service Azure, as well as utilizing its other advanced infrastructure.
“The HaloLens 2 provides total solution services to customers in the field of mixed reality including advanced programs and AI services,” Lee said. “It will provide smooth business operations and educational support which will enhance productivity at a time when physical contact is difficult.”