Microsoft is working with Volkswagen to bring augmented reality to cars through a new "Mobile Platform" mode for Hololens 2.
Neither company goes into exact details about how this will work, but there are some indications as to what to expect. Microsoft, for example, said that "Moving Platform" could be used to train drivers on how to handle adverse road conditions.
This is not about training everyday drivers. Instead, the focus, as with everything else in the HoloLens 2 orbit, is business and enterprise, meaning this platform could be used to train fleet drivers, for example.
Enhanced with 3D models
Looking at the prototype images, the mode works by placing 3D models inside and outside of a car. You can only see them with the HoloLens 2 mixed reality headset. For navigation, you'll have a map for the route placed virtually on top of the dashboard with an arrow pointing where you need to go.
HoloLens 2 will also display a holographic pedestrian warning at crosswalks to tell you to watch out for people. It will even tell you the temperature inside the car.
Microsoft tested the mobile platform prototype by having Volkswagen researchers connect one of its vehicles to a HoloLens. The Volkswagen team then worked with Microsoft and provided feedback on how to improve the HoloLens' mobile platform mode.
This update is based on Microsoft's current version of the mobile platform, which is designed for use on ships in the ocean. Ocean waves can disrupt the HoloLen 2, so the mode stabilizes the view of the device.
Microsoft doesn't stop with cars and ships. There are plans to bring its Mobile Platform to “…elevators, trains, other moving environments”.
Rescate from HoloLens
This new partnership with Volkswagen may be a way to breathe new life into the HoloLens project. You've been through a tumultuous time recently.
In early February 2022, HoloLens 3 was cancelled. The problem was that no one knew what the purpose of the headset was, which may be why some of the HoloLens 3 team jumped ship to work for Meta in their metaverse projects.
However, with this partnership of Moving Platform Volkswagen, Microsoft is cementing the purpose of HoleLens 2 as a mixed reality tool for virtual training and information in an ever-growing variety of work scenarios. One can only hope that the HoloLens headset and mobile platform will one day end up in high school driver's education classes as well.