Microsoft Corp.’s improved combat goggles are making solid steps toward joining the U.S. Army’s arsenal. After passing a first round of intensive testing, these devices are ready to face a new challenge in 2025. At the end of July, the first 20 prototypes of the IVAS 1.2 glasses, developed by Microsoft, were delivered to the US Army. These devices were subjected to rigorous evaluations by soldiers, whose comments were essential for their improvement. Key evaluation points included reliability, performance in low light conditions and the reduction of side effects such as nausea and dizziness, which had been a hurdle in previous versions.
The test results were extremely positive. The soldiers stood out improvements to sensor reliability and performance in low light situations, which is essential for night operations. Additionally, a more comfortable fit was achieved, minimizing the discomfort previously experienced.
The enthusiasm generated by these advances translated into a new contract awarded to Microsoft on September 5. Although financial details have not been disclosed, this agreement will serve the production of additional systems and a deeper evaluation of Microsoft’s ability to manufacture large quantities of these glasses.
The next big test will take place between April and June 2025, when new pre-production models will undergo intense combat operational testing.. If this phase is successful, we could see the full implementation of Microsoft’s virtual reality glasses in the US military.
The road to these improvements has not been without obstacles. Microsoft’s HoloLens glasses, on which IVAS 1.2 is based, faced problems in previous tests. Headaches, nausea and eyestrain were some of the side effects reported by soldiers who tested them in late 2022.
An internal Army report noted that these deficiencies could affect the execution of military missions. In addition, the bright lights of the glasses were visible from several meters away, a failure that could compromise the soldiers’ position on the battlefield. The heavy and bulky design also limited users’ mobility, affecting their ability to complete missions..
Despite these initial challenges, Soldiers have committed to moving forward with the device as it has improved navigation and coordination of units on the ground.
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Source: La Opinion
