Microsoft’s augmented reality glasses can run for only up to 5 hours before they need to be plugged in.

A recent presentation made by Bruce Harris, the Microsoft technical evangelist, in Tel Aviv, revealed several pieces of insight about the augmented reality Hololens headset, some of which impressed the tech industry and some of which is turning out to be a bit of a disappointment.

Though many details had been revealed back in October, this recent presentation offered more insight.

Back in the original demonstration of HoloLens by Microsoft, last October, there was a great deal revealed about the function of the augmented reality device. However, some key factors were absent in that presentation, including battery life, pricing and other additional functionalities. Now, the recent Tel Aviv presentation from Bruce Harris has shown a great deal more of the finer points surrounding this gadget.

Harris explained that, depending on its usage, HoloLens will last only 2.5 to 5.5 hours before needing to recharge.

This suggests that if anyone were to invest in one of these devices, they may also want to have a good portable charger with them, as well. After all, using the headset for routine activities will give the individual only just over five hours. However, when pushing the device a little bit harder, that battery life can shrink down to 2.5 hours. For that to become a practical device it will need to be used alongside an external battery pack.

Harris also went on to say that HoloLens will be capable of running virtually any Universal app and it is currently operating on Windows 10 out of the box. Also pointed out in the presentation was that when the headset becomes consumer ready, it will be “totally wireless” and will be capable of connecting to any Bluetooth device or WiFi network. Of course, if WiFi drains this device as much as it can take down many smartphones and tablets, this will only reinforce the need for a portable charger that will be able to recharge it a few times each day.

When it comes to field of view, the HoloLens should provide an experience that can be compared to that of a 15 inch monitor. This field of view was selected in order to make it possible for Microsoft to provide optimal production capabilities in order to keep costs manageable.

New cloud-based mobile payments system has won the approval of MasterCard

Gemalto, a prominent digital security firm, has received approval from MasterCard to complete its cloud-based mobile payments system. The new system is meant to serve as an all-encompassing solution, including support for backoffice server platforms and payment software running on a consumer’s mobile device. The system will leverage the power of cloud computing technology, which will make it more secure and allow it to better accommodate the needs of consumers and businesses alike.

Security remains a major issue that requires attention in the mobile payments space

MasterCard spent a significant amount of time evaluating the mobile payments system from Gemalto. The company was particularly interested in the security aspects of the system, as Gemalto has extensive experience in digital security. Mobile security has become a quite important issue in the mobile payments space. As mobile commerce has grown in popularity, it has become an attractive target for malicious groups that want to exploit consumer financial information. Gemalto has been an advocate for security, especially in the mobile payments space, for several years.

Payment system will be part of the Allynis Trusted Services Hub

The new payment system will be a part of Gemalto’s Allynis Trusted Services Hub, which serves as a turnkey business service for financial institutions. Merchants and banks will be able to use the system to effectively engage mobile consumers. Gemalto notes that the new system will be secure, providing users with piece of mind, especially as security threats become more prominent.

Companies are beginning to feel pressure to embrace mobile payments services

Mobile payments are becoming more popular among consumers, many of whom are beginning to base a significant portion of their lives on their smartphones. This has begun to pressure several companies, particularly those within the retail industry, to embrace new mobile-centric services, such as payment and mobile security systems. These companies have begun to invest in systems like those provided by Gemalto, which will allow them to better connect with consumers and ensure their success in the mobile payments field.