Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) augmented reality headset developed by Microsoft for the United States military based on HoloLens technology. After facing various problems, the first 5000 IVAS headsets were received by the military in September 2022.
But the United States Congress has blocked the purchase of a new $400 million IVAS headset until the previously reported issues are resolved first.
Among the issues reported after 1000 military personnel spent 100,000 hours testing the IVAS were that it made the wearer feel like vomiting, discomfort and the light from the headset could reveal the location to the enemy.
Only the cost of developing IVAS 1.2 worth $120 million was approved by Congress where the set of ships will be further reduced in size, more balanced in weight and improved in comfort.
The original purpose of IVAS was to provide more sophisticated communication capabilities on the battlefield by infantrymen. The project faced various problems that took several years to resolve. The use of AR technology is expected to show the location of the enemy more clearly in addition to providing an improved night mode.