Microsoft starts selling HoloLens devkit in a number of European countries

Microsoft has started selling the HoloLens in a number of European countries. The augmented reality glasses can be ordered in Germany for 3,299 euros and will be delivered in November. It is a developer version.

In March, the developer kit already appeared in the United States for $3,000; from now on, the HoloLens can also be ordered in Germany, France, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Microsoft offers the HoloLens for 3299 euros, but a Commercial Suite variant is also available for 5489 euros.

This Enterprise edition offers business functions, such as a Kiosk mode, which makes it possible to limit which apps can be run on the augmented reality glasses. According to Microsoft, this version also offers more security and management options, and buyers get a warranty. Microsoft does not guarantee the regular edition. That is allowed, because it is a version for developers and not regular sale to consumers. Buyers must agree to that condition before purchasing.

Inside the HoloLens is a specially made holographic processing unit with 24 cores, combined with 8MB sram to process the input from the cameras and sensors. An Intel Atom Cherry Trail soc and 1GB ram are available for running apps.

It is not yet clear when the HoloLens or a similar device will actually hit the market for consumers. In June, Microsoft opened the Windows Holographic platform to manufacturers. At the time, the software maker said several manufacturers are working on HoloLens equipment. This would include HTC, Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo and MSI. However, those manufacturers have not yet announced any concrete plans.