Microsoft is pulling the plug on its Windows Mixed Reality platform and related apps and software, marking the end of the company’s struggling efforts in the virtual reality space.

In a recent update detailing deprecated Windows features, Microsoft stated that Windows Mixed Reality — first introduced in 2017 as an attempt to compete with VR leaders like Oculus and HTC Vive — will be removed from future Windows releases. The discontinuation also applies to the Mixed Reality Portal app and Windows Mixed Reality for Steam VR.

Windows Mixed Reality served as Microsoft’s gateway into virtual reality, providing access to VR games, apps, and experiences. In addition to Microsoft’s own HoloLens headsets, third-party manufacturers like Acer, Asus and Samsung created MR headsets compatible with Microsoft’s ecosystem. However, it failed to gain significant traction.

The sunset of Windows Mixed Reality is the latest setback for Microsoft’s VR ambitions, following a difficult few years. Last year, HoloLens creator Alex Kipman departed the company amid misconduct allegations. Recent major job cuts also disproportionately affected Microsoft’s mixed reality staff.

The enterprise-focused HoloLens remains unaffected for now after a recent Windows 11 update. But the consumer writing seems to be on the wall for the technology. While Microsoft is hedging its bets on some VR-adjacent technologies like its Mesh platform for collaborative workspaces, its dreams of becoming a major VR contender appear to be over.

For those who invested in Windows MR headsets, the discontinuation signals a premature end-of-life for their hardware. While unsupported workarounds may arise to extend functionality, the platform’s expiry underscores the risks in buying into a new, unproven computing paradigm — no matter how big the names behind it.