Elly Yates-Roberts |
Microsoft has partnered with Econocom and Bechtle to expand distribution of its HoloLens mixed reality headset in Europe.
Microsoft says that HoloLens’ ability to merge virtual objects into the physical world has multiple applications and these partnerships will enable more companies to utilise its potential and boost their digital transformation.
“Mixed reality is still in its early stages but already it’s poised to revolutionise a number of uses in the professional world. Joining forces with Microsoft, who are precursors of this technology, will enable us to help our clients keep right up to date with these new uses,” said Bruno Grossi, executive director of French tech firm Econocom Group.
Econocom will offer financing solutions such as subscriptions or pay-per-use – this will speed up HoloLens adoption, which was previously only available from the Microsoft Store, by offering companies turnkey solutions to address their digital transformation challenges.
Based in Germany, Bechtle will offer corporate customers additional services around Microsoft HoloLens as part of its ‘Mixed Reality as a Service’ (MRaaS) offering, meaning companies will be able to rent the device for testing purposes.
“Since Microsoft HoloLens came onto the market last year, we have been experiencing a continuously high demand from companies,” said Michael Zawrel, senior product manager mixed reality and HoloLens at Microsoft Germany. “By cooperating with Bechtle, we are taking this development into account and making it even easier for companies to benefit from the advantages of mixed reality technology.”