In a significant shift that has sent shockwaves through the virtual reality community, Microsoft has made the controversial decision to completely remove support for Windows Mixed Reality (MR) headsets in its latest update to Windows 11, known as version 24H2. This change means that popular headsets from various manufacturers—including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung—will become nothing more than high-tech paperweights for users who dare to update their operating systems.
UploadVR's testing reveals that Microsoft's intent was clear; after the installation of Windows 11 24H2, users would be met with an error message stating that the headsets were no longer functional, which raises questions about the foresight of Microsoft's hardware strategy.
Despite their lower prices—some models were available for as little as $200—the allure of the Quest line from Meta and its standalone capabilities quickly overshadowed any competition. As the industry pivoted towards wireless standalone headsets that are user-friendly, the Windows MR headsets fell markedly behind.
Moreover, plans are underway to enable hardware such as Windows laptops to interact seamlessly with Meta’s systems, allowing users to spawn virtual monitors with just a glance. This development points towards a future where Microsoft envisions a more integrated and software-focused VR approach.
As the virtual reality landscape shifts towards more user-friendly solutions and robust ecosystems, one must ponder: Is Microsoft’s focus on Meta truly the way forward, or has it abandoned its loyal MR users for greener pastures? The conversation continues, and for many, the days of Windows MR have sadly come to a close. Stay tuned, WindowsForum followers—there are more twists in this tale to come!
Source: UploadVR Windows MR Headsets No Longer Work In Windows 11 24H2
A Deep Dive into the Shutdown of Windows MR
Released in October 2024, Windows 11 24H2 officially ends the functionality of all Windows MR headsets, effectively closing the curtain on a platform that initially aimed to compete with established VR titans like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. This drastic measure has left many users with a sour taste, especially considering that in August, around 80,000 SteamVR users—about 3.49%—were still utilizing these headsets.The Unfortunate Landscape of Virtual Reality
Microsoft's move aligns with a more extensive pattern of disengagement from the Windows MR ecosystem; the company had previously hinted at this direction during an announcement last December. The impact is staggering: for those who cannot resist the lure of the latest Windows features and have been using their MR headsets, these once-promising devices are now rendered obsolete.UploadVR's testing reveals that Microsoft's intent was clear; after the installation of Windows 11 24H2, users would be met with an error message stating that the headsets were no longer functional, which raises questions about the foresight of Microsoft's hardware strategy.
A Short, Faltering History of Windows MR
Windows MR made its debut in late 2017, vying for market share in the burgeoning field of virtual reality. With unique features such as inside-out positional tracking, these devices had a lot going for them. However, they never really took off. One of the primary criticisms stemmed from their tracking quality—limited to just two forward-facing cameras compared to the four or more found in competitors' headsets.Despite their lower prices—some models were available for as little as $200—the allure of the Quest line from Meta and its standalone capabilities quickly overshadowed any competition. As the industry pivoted towards wireless standalone headsets that are user-friendly, the Windows MR headsets fell markedly behind.
Ergonomics and Competitive Disadvantages
Not even the intriguing technical specifications of headsets like HP's Reverb G2, which offered impressive 2K displays, could compensate for the lack of ergonomically designed controllers. They felt cheap and were often described as uncomfortable compared to the beloved Touch controllers from Oculus. Ultimately, users were left feeling that Microsoft’s MR offering lacked the polish and substance needed to be a worthy investment—especially when better options were readily available.The Broader Implications for Microsoft
Interestingly, this sudden abandonment coincides with Microsoft's announcement that it will cease production of the HoloLens 2, signaling a pivot in its mixed reality strategy. The company is transferring its focus to a software partnership with Meta, integrating services like Xbox Cloud Gaming into the VR ecosystem of Quest headsets. This shift suggests that Microsoft is no longer interested in developing its own hardware to compete in the VR market but would rather collaborate with Meta, thereby reshaping the landscape of mixed reality.Moreover, plans are underway to enable hardware such as Windows laptops to interact seamlessly with Meta’s systems, allowing users to spawn virtual monitors with just a glance. This development points towards a future where Microsoft envisions a more integrated and software-focused VR approach.
Conclusion: A Sad Farewell to Windows MR
With the official end of Windows MR support in Windows 11 24H2, we witness a poignant moment in the evolution of virtual reality and particular Microsoft’s ambitious, albeit troubled, journey in this realm. For the dedicated users who invested in MR technology, Microsoft’s abrupt withdrawal poses significant challenges.As the virtual reality landscape shifts towards more user-friendly solutions and robust ecosystems, one must ponder: Is Microsoft’s focus on Meta truly the way forward, or has it abandoned its loyal MR users for greener pastures? The conversation continues, and for many, the days of Windows MR have sadly come to a close. Stay tuned, WindowsForum followers—there are more twists in this tale to come!
Source: UploadVR Windows MR Headsets No Longer Work In Windows 11 24H2