A $480 million contract with the US Army has been awarded to Microsoft for prototypes of augmented reality headsets for use in combat and training. The contract would allow the Army to purchase upwards of 100,000 HoloLens AR headsets from Microsoft, which it has used before in training but would like to integrate into live combat.

Microsoft says it will release a Windows 10 update for its HoloLens augmented reality headset, with added features such as Remote Assist and Microsoft Layout designed to make it more appealing to businesses. The company is also working to expand its HoloLens partnerships and app offerings.

Western Michigan College of Aviation associate professor Lori Brown used Microsoft's HoloLens technology to design a virtual reality system called JetXplore that her students use to experience aircraft systems in near-real-life detail. "Unlike other advanced technologies, HoloLens offers a natural means of interaction. There's no mouse, wire or touch screen," said Brown. "All you need are simple gestures to interact with holograms, your voice to communicate with apps, and your eyes to navigate and analyze content."

Systems integrators are now included in Microsoft's HoloLens agency certification program as the company extends its drive to open up mixed-reality development. "As members of the Mixed Reality Partner Program, these [systems integrators] and digital/creative agencies will play a critical role in building 3D and mixed-reality experiences for enterprise commercial customers," said Jeff Hanset, ‎head of HoloLens product marketing.