Microsoft announced a US $ 22 billion contract with the US Army to produce augmented reality headphones.
Augmented reality, or AR, is a technology that uses glasses to project computer-generated images and information that augment what users see in the real physical world.
The deal was announced Wednesday. Microsoft would supply at least 120,000 soldiers with the devices.
Military officials said the technology will improve soldiers’ ability to see their surroundings and identify targets and hazards. The technology is based on Microsoft’s HoloLens headsets, which were initially developed for video games.
The Army said the headphones could be used for training and battle. The Army said the AR system could help troops gain an advantage during battle. The soldiers first tested the gadgets last year.
The contract is worth up to $ 21.88 billion for up to 10 years, Microsoft said. The contract lasts for five years and can be extended for another five years.
Microsoft President Brad Smith spoke about the technology to the US Senate Armed Services Committee in February. He said soldiers can use the system to see at night and for facial recognition on the battlefield. He also described how it could help in hostage situations, creating an electronic representation of a building, what he called “digital twin. “
Several technology companies have sought to use augmented reality for video games. These efforts were largely unsuccessful. But Microsoft’s Hololens 2 will be used by the Army. The company also wants the devices to be used to assist doctors during medical operations, factory staff and others. Users can generally control what they see on the device using hand movements or voice commands.
The headset deal is part of Microsoft’s job as a defense contractor. The military also awarded Microsoft a $ 10 billion cloud computing contract in September.
I’m Mario Ritter, Jr.
Matt O’Brien reported this story to the Associated Press. Dan Novak adapted for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter Jr. was the editor.
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Words in this story
Earphone– n. (augmented reality) a device worn on the head that uses computer technology to produce images and information that enhance what the user can see in the real world
project–v. make (a light, an image, a film, etc.) appear on a surface
gadget–n a small and useful device
digital–adj. using or characterized by computer technology
twin–n. any of the two similar things that make up a pair
contractor–n a person who is hired to do a job or supply goods at a certain price or term
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