Source: news.google.com
The buzz about Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset isn’t going away, and now one of Apple’s top analysts in the business has weighed in to say the device could be unveiled as early as January 2023.
In an industry note seen by 9to5Mac (opens in a new tab)the usually reliable Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that the new hardware is “likely” to be announced in January 2023, but also says it may not be on sale to consumers at the same time.
There had been talk that the headphones would see the light of day sometime during 2022, though the most recent rumors predicted a 2023 release as Apple continues to refine the technology and make it suitable for a full release.
The most complicated Apple product ever
In his note, Kuo describes the AR/VR headset as “the most complicated product Apple has ever designed” and a “game changer for the headset industry.” It’s also recognized that Meta can start spending less on VR hardware.
“Although Apple has repeatedly reiterated its focus on AR, I think Apple AR/MR with transparent video support could also offer a great immersive experience,” Kuo says. (opens in a new tab). “Therefore, the launch of Apple AR/MR will further drive the demand for immersive gaming/multimedia entertainment.”
Earlier this week, Apple CEO Tim Cook said he “couldn’t be more excited about the opportunities” in augmented reality and virtual reality, and that any future products should “put humanity at the center.” to have success.
Analysis: what we think we know so far
Apple executives have long been talking about the possibilities offered by augmented reality, or AR, which involves overlaying digital graphics on the real world. Word is that Apple is busy working on a pair of lightweight AR glasses right now.
At the same time, a more comprehensive (and expensive) device is believed to be in the works, which is what Ming-Chi Kuo is talking about here. It ostensibly combines AR with virtual reality, or VR: digital worlds that are more or less completely closed off, as we’ve seen with hardware like the Oculus Quest 2.
This combination of AR and VR, sometimes referred to as mixed reality or MR, appears to be destined for Apple’s next big product launch. Rumors are that it will run the same M1 chips that can be found in Apple laptops and tablets, and that it will be based on a new software platform called realityOS.
From what we’ve heard, it’s shaping up to be a premium device and will come with a premium price tag attached: perhaps around $3,000 (about £2,450 / AU$4,320). We may not have to wait much longer to find out.
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