Microsoft today announced that Windows 11 is coming to HoloLens 2 as a free upgrade first half of this year. Also, this is an optional upgrade. If required, HoloLens 2 customers can continue using Windows 10 on HoloLens 2.
Upgrading to Windows 11 enables continuous platform support, so HoloLens 2 customers can receive monthly security servicing updates to improve security and app performance.
In addition, Microsoft Edge WebView2 control will also be available on HoloLens 2. This feature is already in preview now. WebView2 control allows developers to embed latest web technologies (including HTML, CSS and JavaScript) into their native applications.
Along with Windows 11 upgrade for HoloLens 2, Microsoft also announced the following features for Microsoft Dynamics 365 Guides.
3D annotations
The new annotation feature that allows users to annotate anything around them within arm’s reach, creating a seamless blend of physical and virtual content. 3D drawings don’t need to be attached to a machine or surface − users can apply them anywhere, granting more freedom when illustrating complex processes to frontline workers in the field. Additionally, any annotation that needs to be made on a complex surface within eyesight will have improved accuracy with this update.
Custom security
New custom security feature for Dynamics 365 Guides called “Restricted Mode” gives organizations more control over their mixed reality apps. This is a significant update for highly confidential facilities looking to enforce stricter access controls around systems and information deployed on HoloLens 2. Companies can better prevent unauthorized access to confidential information and highly sensitive data.
GxP industry guidance
For regulated industries that must comply with Good Practice (GxP) protocols to ensure products consistently meet the bar for quality, there is a new industry guidance for Dynamics 365 Guides. Microsoft developed this new guidance in partnership with NNIT in Denmark, to help highly regulated industries take advantage of these MR capabilities while following best practices. Customers can expect to see this guidance published in H1 of this calendar year.
Microsoft Teams calls on HoloLens 2
The latest Guides update includes additional features like the ability to toggle video on or off before a call, in addition to improving the reliability and quality of call streaming.
