Microsoft HoloLens 2 Augmented Reality at ŠKODA AUTO

ŠKODA AUTO’s IT infrastructure is implemented in a hybrid environment that combines on-premises and cloud solutions. This complex architecture, with clear access and security policies, required the creation of an autonomous, flexible, and secure environment for implementing “proof of concept” projects using HoloLens 2 technology. It was necessary to ensure that this environment complied with the company’s stringent internal policies and enabled the effective testing and implementation of individual PoC projects.

KPCS has created a production environment equipped with Microsoft 365 E3, which includes the management and configuration of HoloLens 2 devices using Microsoft Intune integrated with Azure Active Directory. This environment enables efficient and secure management of mobile devices and applications, while providing a high level of data security. Data protection is implemented through integration with Azure Information Protection. The security of the environment is ensured by a combination of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and conditional access services, which help protect data on devices used by company employees.

To build the PoC environment at ŠKODA AUTO, we utilized several key technologies and services that ensured operational requirements were met.
Microsoft HoloLens 2: Augmented reality headsets that allow users to interact with digital content in the real world. They enable the visualization of 3D models, the provision of remote assistance, and the improvement of workflows through holographic instructions.
Microsoft 365 E3: A suite of cloud services that includes applications such as Exchange Online, OneDrive for Business, Microsoft Teams, and more. These services support communication, collaboration, and data management within organizations.
Microsoft Intune: A service for managing mobile devices (MDM) and mobile apps (MAM) that enables efficient and secure management of devices and apps. Intune provides tools for configuring, monitoring, and protecting devices.
Azure Active Directory: An identity and access management service that provides single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA). It enables the management of user accounts and access to applications and data.
Azure Information Protection: A tool for classifying, labeling, and protecting sensitive data. It helps ensure that data is protected using encryption and other security measures.
Multifactor authentication (MFA): A security measure that requires more than just a password to verify a user’s identity. It combines something the user knows (a password) with something the user has (e.g., a cell phone), which significantly increases the level of security.
Conditional Access Management: A service that allows you to define and enforce access policies for applications and data based on various conditions, such as the user’s location, device status, or risk profile.

The environment created enables ŠKODA AUTO to effectively test and implement HoloLens 2 technologies, bringing revolutionary improvements to production processes and the customer experience. Thanks to this project, it is possible to build teams of experts across the company, regardless of geographic location. Experts can provide their in-depth knowledge remotely, enabling highly flexible and rapid responses when intervention is needed or for routine maintenance or repairs of machines and production lines. The company is thus able to respond more quickly and consistently to potential risks associated with production line downtime, which could otherwise result in significant operational and financial losses.

“Augmented reality, powered by the technology and capabilities of Microsoft HoloLens 2, is propelling IT into the next millennium. Microsoft HoloLens 2 will accelerate the automation and optimization of work processes at ŠKODA AUTO.” — Pavel Zita, Infrastructure Applications Coordinator at ŠKODA AUTO a.s.