Never-before-seen HoloLens headset makes appearance in NASA video

A recent video from NASA has given us a look at a HoloLens headset with a design that hasn't been seen before, which has raised suspicions as to whether or not this is our first look at the next HoloLens. Featuring a somewhat slimmer design, this new HoloLens headset looks similar to the original HoloLens, but with a less bulky front.

We know that Microsoft has been hard at work on its next HoloLens headset, which is rumored to debut sometime in 2019. Windows Central understands that this device will be ARM powered, with improved battery life. Hopefully, this device will also feature an improved field-of-view, something the original HoloLens was criticized for.

It's entirely possible that this HoloLens headset is an older HoloLens 1 prototype built before a final decision was made on its design, as the headset is featured alongside familiar HoloLens 1 headsets. It could also be an accidental, or deliberate, tease of what's to come. Who knows.

What do you think? Is this the next HoloLens? Or an older internal prototype that was never intended for release? Let us know in the comments!

Thanks for the tip, Jason Jaegers!

Zac Bowden
Senior Editor

Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch on Twitter and Threads