On Monday, July 10, Mark Lucovsky, head of operating systems on Google’s augmented reality team, made an announcement on Twitter that he has left the company. He stated that his reason for leaving was due to changes in AR leadership and Google’s unstable commitment and vision.
In 2021, Lucovsky took on the role of heading Google’s OS team focused on augmented reality technology. Prior to his time at Google, he held positions at Facebook as the general manager for Oculus, as well as working for Microsoft and VMware.
Lucovsky is well-known for his contributions to the creation and design of the Windows NT operating system, which served as the foundation for all Windows versions after Windows XP.
In his tweet, Lucovsky wrote, “I have decided to step away from my role at Google, where I was Senior Director of Engineering, responsible for OS and Software Platform for AR and XR devices. The recent changes in AR leadership and Google’s unstable commitment and vision have weighed heavily on my decision.”
He also expressed his eagerness to explore opportunities that allow him to further advance augmented reality technology and its intersection with generative AI. Lucovsky stated, “I approach the next chapter with enthusiasm and anticipation for the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.”
In response to a tweet from Microsoft’s Chief Scientific Officer, Eric Horvitz, asking if it was time for him to come home, Lucovsky suggested that he may be considering returning to Microsoft.
The departure of Lucovsky is another setback for Google’s AR team, which has faced several challenges in recent months. These challenges include job cuts and the resignation of Clay Bavor, who was previously in charge of VR at Google.
In June, it was reported that Google has abandoned its plans to develop AR glasses, known as Project Iris. Additionally, the enterprise version of Google Glass has been discontinued.
