Rumor: Samsung wants to partner with Microsoft on HoloLens

Samsung is reportedly seeking collaboration with Microsoft for the development of the HoloLens. The Korean electronics company sees opportunities for applications in the medical sector, among other things. Microsoft could use Samsung’s sensor knowledge.

Samsung is said to be planning to collaborate on the HoloLens to solidify its position in the wearables market. “Samsung is looking for opportunities to develop innovative, pioneering products. HoloLens is an important technology for healthcare and medical devices,” said a Korea Times source familiar with the collaboration plans.

Collaboration would be beneficial for both parties, at least in Korea, because Samsung would then be able to leverage its sensor and processor expertise, while Microsoft would have a better chance with a major ally to elevate its HoloLens to a standard. Microsoft and Samsung are said to be working together more closely in recent times. For example, both companies have decided to discontinue patent disputes and Samsung provides its Galaxy S6 models with Office apps.

It is not known how Microsoft has reacted to the possible rapprochement of the Korean group. The HoloLens is rumored to contain a Cherry Trail soc from Intel. It is unknown whether Samsung technology was used for the augmented reality glasses. During Build 2015, the inventor of the HoloLens, Alex Kipman, expressed the hope that other manufacturers would come up with ‘holographic computers’, with which Microsoft does not seem to keep the technology to itself. Samsung is already working with Facebook’s Oculus for its Gear VR glasses.