Apple could be blending AR and VR with two headsets in the near future. However leading the way with some sort of high-end AR/VR headset more like an advanced Quest 2. According to a report back in January by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
Gurman’s most recent reports indicate an emphasis on gaming, media, and communication. According to a story from The Information earlier this year. It might be pricey, costing up to $3,000 or more, with 8K monitors, eye tracking. Additionally cameras that can scan the world and combine AR and VR together.
Apple VR/AR headset is arriving in the fourth quarter of 2022
Apple’s VR/AR headset, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo’s November estimate, will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2022 with Wi-Fi 6 and 6E capabilities. Another claim from Kuo from December suggests a gadget that is relatively light, weighing around 300-400 grams (roughly 10.5-14 ounces). It’s not as heavy as the Oculus (Meta) Quest 2.
Apple’s M1 CPU is believed to be used in the headgear. Which will be a stand-alone device. It may, however, be able to communicate with Apple’s other products. This isn’t a shocking move.
In fact, most reports regarding Apple’s headgear appear to match how VR is evolving: reduced weight, with increased mixed reality functionality via improved passthrough cameras. In that sense, Apple’s initial headset, similar to Meta’s next headset, Project Cambria, will most likely serve as a steppingstone to future lighter AR glasses.
The VR headset may be a ‘Pro’ device
According to most reports, Apple’s virtual reality headset would be so pricey and powerful that it would target a niche audience rather than the general public.This could place it in the same business/creative market as more powerful VR headsets like the Varjo XR-3.
Apple’s headgear may function as a stand-alone device, similar to the Quest 2, and also when linked to a Mac, like the Quest 2 does. Apple’s advantage might be producing a professional headset that is much lighter and works independently of any other PC-ready gear.
But it’s unclear how many apps and features Apple will be able to include in order for the headgear to seem like a truly Pro tool for creators.