Darth Vader is depicted communicating with a subordinate via a handheld hologram projector.
A holoprojector was a device capable of the functions of recording, transmitting, receiving, and projecting holograms. These devices came in a range of sizes. Lower quality models often struggled with accurate color representation, frequently applying a strong blue tint. Hologram fidelity could be compromised during transmissions spanning light-years. Holoprojectors could be integrated into droids, or even attached to a user's gauntlet or comlink. It was not unusual to see concealed holoprojectors used for conversations, which did not project an obvious blue light, and sometimes rendered a colored image.
An R-series astromech droid is shown with its holoprojector.
Roughly thirty years following the Battle of Endor, holoprojectors had advanced to the point where they could display subjects in full color, without any visible filters or scan lines. Snoke, the First Order's Supreme Leader, exploited this technology to project himself at a size larger than his actual physical form.
Around or following 34 ABY, the Safari droid SF-R3, nicknamed "Aree," and the cam droid CAM were both affiliated with the Galactic Society of Creature Enthusiasts. They journeyed across the galaxy aboard a starship that featured a color holoprojector installed in its cockpit, which displayed the Society's logo when active. Aree also possessed a handheld holoprojector that projected predominantly blue-tinted holograms. When CAM recorded Aree to transmit footage via the Holonet, Aree would often use his holoprojector to display a hologram of the creature he was about to interact with. When not in use, Aree stored his holoprojector in his cargo compartment.
Holoprojectors made their debut in the 1977 movie Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope, which was the initial entry in the Star Wars original trilogy.
The prop team working on the Obi-Wan Kenobi television show created a damaged holoprojector prop specifically for use in the series. The design included exposed wiring.