Explore Apple’s ambitious leap into the future with their Augmented and Virtual Reality technologies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset, its features, applications, pricing, and the cutting-edge mixed reality technology it uses. Join us as we delve into what this means for consumers and the tech industry at large.
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Apple’s Augmented and Virtual Reality Work
Apple has been experimenting with virtual reality and augmented reality technologies for almost 20 years based on patent filings. With virtual and augmented reality exploding in popularity with the launch of ARKit, Apple’s dabbling is growing more serious and is expected to lead to the first wearable AR/VR Apple device in 2023.
Apple’s AR/VR Devices
Apple is developing at least two AR/VR devices that include a mixed reality headset set to be released in 2023 followed by a more affordable version coming at a later date. Apple’s headset has faced numerous delays, and while the company originally wanted to launch it in 2022, that wasn’t possible. A 2023 launch is expected, with Apple planning to introduce the wearable at WWDC. The cheaper version could come in either 2024 or 2025, and there could be multiple second-generation models available.
Features of Apple’s AR/VR Headset
The AR/VR headset will be a standalone device with Apple silicon chips that will put performance on par with Apple’s Macs. It will have two chips inside that will allow it to perform complex tasks and handle the virtual reality capabilities, plus it will be able to operate independently of an iPhone or a Mac. Pairing will be possible to use the iPhone as a keyboard and to transfer data, but it won’t be required.
Applications and Operating System
Apple is designing an App Store for the headset, and content will focus on gaming, streaming video, and video conferencing. It will run “xrOS,” a new operating system designed specifically for the headset. A FaceTime experience will use the cameras to project a person’s full face and body into a virtual environment for one-on-one calls, and there will also be other apps like Calendar, Mail, Safari, and more.
Pricing of Apple’s AR/VR Headset
As the AR/VR headset is an entirely new product category adopting cutting-edge technology, it’s not going to be cheap. Rumors suggest it could be priced somewhere around $3,000.
AR and VR – Mixed Reality
Apple’s first headset will support both AR and VR capabilities, technology that’s usually referred to as “mixed reality.” Virtual reality refers to a full immersive experience in a virtual world, while augmented reality refers to a modified view of the real world.