This is how a Microsoft designer’s “Copilot Veja” concept reimagines HoloLens without glasses — but the ergonomics are still a pain

In the previous year, Microsoft stopped manufacturing the HoloLens 2 headsets and didn’t provide any details about a potential successor. Nevertheless, they have committed to offering security updates for these devices up until December 31, 2027.

Microsoft’s HoloLens is merely a small glimpse into the vast array of products and services that Microsoft discontinued before they could fully flourish. This sentiment was echoed by Elon Musk, billionaire CEO of Tesla, who recently proposed creating an AI-powered company reminiscent of Microsoft, which he humorously named “Macrohard.” The name suggests that Microsoft, despite being a software powerhouse, lacks significant involvement in the hardware sector.

Imagining a scenario where Microsoft reintroduces HoloLens with an innovative twist: integrating Copilot AI and a revolutionary new design. In reality, this is what Braz de Pina did – as the principal designer for Microsoft, he conceived an unofficial concept of a wearable device powered by Copilot AI, which could be HoloLens’ successor and potentially compete with Apple’s Vision Pro and XREAL’s latest AR glasses (according to TechRadar Pro).

The AI-powered wearable device is called “Copilot Veja” by its designer, and it boasts a unique shape in line with futuristic concepts. Unlike Microsoft’s HoloLens headsets, Copilot Veja sports ear-worn devices that include cameras, microphones, and buttons to elevate the user’s real-world interaction experience.

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According to TechRadar Pro, the name Copilot Veja includes a Portuguese term that means “to see,” which is quite unexpected given that this device does not feature any visual head-up display equipment for the user’s personal use, such as camera-integrated glasses or advanced visors with technology.

The Microsoft designer pointed out that since most individuals already have screens on their mobile devices, an extra display would essentially be unnecessary because of its redundancy. In a similar vein, the question arises: with AI capable of acting autonomously, is visual information from the AI essential? Or is merely hearing it sufficient?

A glimpse of what Microsoft HoloLens’s future would’ve been

According to Braz de Pina, Copilot Veja addresses a significant issue with AI systems – their incapacity to comprehend and adapt to context in real-time.

As an analyst, I’d rephrase it like this: “In essence, if we’re addressing the issue, AI wouldn’t require glasses – it would be rectifying one of its limitations: the inability to grasp real-time context. An AI that mirrors our vision and instantly comments on our surroundings would facilitate swift, intuitive interaction. This is precisely what Copilot Veja embodies. Veja, in Portuguese, means ‘see’. It’s a verb. In simpler terms, Copilot sees.

The idea presented by a Microsoft worker features two cameras collaborating to mimic 3D (stereoscopic) vision. This enables the device to utilize artificial intelligence for thorough environmental analysis and also lets users capture content conveniently during their daily activities.

Despite the acknowledgement that creating these advanced earbuds would be quite a challenge, particularly regarding ergonomics, de Pina explained, ‘I must admit that modeling something to resemble a human for quick 3D design can be tricky. So, please bear with me as I work on fine-tuning the fit and proportions.’

Given the intricate design of the earbuds, complete with comfortable ear stems, multiple control options such as a power button, volume control, a Copilot button, and a camera shutter, it appears that the development process might prove challenging due to the complex requirements involved.

The use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies has not spread widely beyond businesses. These tech companies often struggle to meet the high standards suggested during product demonstrations. Additionally, the cost and size of these devices, which tend to be larger, have hindered their wider acceptance.

As an analyst, I find it compelling to share that, initially, the hesitation was there to bring this project into the limelight. Yet, acknowledging the potential interest and curiosity, I decided to disclose my work with a clear disclaimer:

“I am pleased to introduce this as a personal endeavor, unrelated to or endorsed by Microsoft. Although I am an employee of Microsoft, this project stands independently, separate from any official initiatives or industrial design projects within the company. My responsibilities primarily lie in UI/UX design, and I have no involvement nor access to any industrial design projects at Microsoft.

It’s uncertain if Microsoft will eventually embrace this idea, make necessary improvements, and advance to the stage of actual development.

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2025-08-26 14:09