US Army Urges Microsoft to Cut $80,000 Price Tag on IVAS Headsets
The Army seeks a more affordable solution to proceed with large-scale orders of the augmented reality goggles designed to enhance soldier capabilities.
- Microsoft's Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) headsets, based on HoloLens technology, are currently priced at $80,000 each.
- The Army plans to order up to 121,000 units, contingent on successful testing and a reduced price.
- Previous versions of the headsets faced criticism for issues like headaches and visibility, but recent prototypes have shown improvement.
- Microsoft is working to lower costs by examining components, labor, and supply chain efficiencies.
- Congress previously blocked a $400 million purchase due to concerns over the headsets' effectiveness and cost, instead funding further development.