Microsoft
is cutting jobs in its
mixed reality unit
but has said that the
HoloLens 2
headset is here to stay. Despite the
job cuts
, Microsoft will continue selling and presumably supporting the HoloLens 2 augmented reality device.
“Earlier today we announced a restructuring of the Microsoft’s Mixed Reality organisation. We remain fully committed to the Department of Defense’s IVAS program and will continue to deliver cutting edge technology to support our soldiers.
In addition, we will continue to invest in W365 to reach the broader Mixed Reality hardware ecosystem. We will continue to sell HoloLens 2 while supporting existing HoloLens 2 customers and partners,” a spokesperson said in an email.
While the company hasn’t mentioned the number of employees that have been let go, CNBC cited a person familiar with the matter that the company is reducing the workforce by over 1,000 people.
Microsoft also said that it remains committed to its
Mesh feature
, which enables users in headsets to join 3D video calls within Teams alongside colleagues. During November's Microsoft Ignite conference in Seattle, company CEO
Satya Nadella
said that the company's focus is on "reimagining how employees connect and collaborate," regardless of their device (PC, HoloLens, Meta headset, etc.).
Previous job cuts at Microsoft
These layoffs come a year after a broader restructuring that saw 10,000 employees let go, including some in mixed reality. Despite the workforce reduction, the company assures users that the HoloLens 2 augmented reality headset remains available for purchase and presumably continues to be supported.
“Organisational and workforce adjustments are a necessary and regular part of managing our business. We will continue to prioritise and invest in strategic growth areas for our future and in support of our customers and partners,” a separate statement said, addressing broader job cuts at the company.
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