In a significant development, Mark Lucovsky, the former head of operating systems for Google’s augmented reality (AR) team, has recently announced his departure from the company. Citing concerns over “changes in AR leadership and Google’s unstable commitment and vision,” Lucovsky’s exit marks another hurdle for Google’s AR division, which has been grappling with a series of setbacks in recent times.

Lucovsky’s decision to leave follows a string of challenges that have cast a shadow over Google’s AR ambitions. The AR team experienced a round of layoffs earlier this year, further intensifying the pressures within the department. Additionally, Clay Bavor, Google’s former head of virtual reality (VR), also resigned, leaving a leadership vacuum within the AR division. These developments have left the team in a vulnerable position as it strives to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of augmented reality.

According to a report by Insider, Google has abandoned its plans to develop AR glasses, known internally as Project Iris. The company has also halted production of the enterprise edition of Google Glass, signaling a shift in its hardware-focused strategy. Instead, Google intends to concentrate on software development for AR products, with the aim of creating a “micro XR” platform that could potentially be licensed to other headset manufacturers.

Lucovsky’s departure raises questions about the underlying issues within Google’s AR team, including internal instability and wavering commitment to AR hardware. Having previously served as the general manager of Oculus VR at Facebook, Lucovsky brought a wealth of experience to Google when he joined the company in 2021. His resignation suggests a misalignment of vision and direction, potentially hampering the team’s ability to achieve significant progress in the ever-changing AR industry.

In a tweet announcing his departure, Lucovsky expressed his eagerness to explore new opportunities that would allow him to advance augmented reality technology. Notably, he emphasized his interest in the intersection of AR with generative artificial intelligence (AI). Lucovsky’s passion for pushing the boundaries of AR technology underscores the exciting prospects that lie ahead for him in the next phase of his career.

Google’s decision to shift away from AR hardware comes at a time when the mixed reality industry is witnessing heightened competition. The recent release of the Quest 3 headset by Oculus and the upcoming launch of Apple’s Vision Pro indicate the increasing significance of mixed reality experiences. In response to these developments, Google reportedly collaborates with Samsung and Qualcomm on a mixed reality project while also focusing on software solutions for AR products.

As Google reevaluates its AR strategy and grapples with the challenges of the mixed reality landscape, the company faces a pivotal moment in positioning itself to remain relevant. Lucovsky’s departure serves as a reminder of the formidable obstacles confronting Google’s AR team, yet it also highlights the potential for innovation and growth as the company seeks to establish its presence in the software-driven AR market.