Apple’s VR Headset: What We Know So Far

raphaeljorgeMarch 14, 2023

0 18 4 minutes read

Report: Despite the design team’s objections, Tim Cook approved the release of Apple’s VR headset. The headset could be revealed by the company at this year’s WWDC.

According to The Financial Times, the operations team at Apple planned to release a “version one” product with a look similar to a pair of ski goggles. But, the industrial design department of the tech giant felt that it would be better to hold off until a “lightweight version of AR glasses” was more commercially viable. The operations team’s recommendation was apparently approved by Apple CEO Tim Cook, who chose to “push ahead with a debut this year.”

Apple is known for its innovative products and sleek designs, but it has yet to enter the virtual reality (VR) market. That may change soon, as rumors suggest that Apple is working on a VR headset that could also support mixed reality (MR) applications. Here’s what we know so far about Apple’s VR headset, based on leaks and reports from various sources.

Release Date and Price

Apple has not officially confirmed that it is developing a VR headset, but several reports indicate that the project has been in the works for several years. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman , Apple plans to reveal the headset at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this June. WWDC is typically focused on software updates, but last year it also introduced new hardware products such as the M2 chip and the first Macs with Apple silicon.

The release date of the headset is still unclear, but some analysts expect it to launch sometime this year or early next year. However, Gurman also reported that Apple faces some challenges with hardware and software issues, which could delay or cancel the project.

As for the price, don’t expect it to be cheap. The Financial Times reported that Apple’s VR headset could cost around $3,000 / £2,200 / AU$4,400 , making it much more expensive than other standalone VR headsets such as the Meta Quest 2 ($299 / £299 / AU$479 ) or the HTC Vive Focus 3 ($1,300 / £1,272 / AU$1,799 ). The high price tag reflects Apple’s ambition to create a premium product that offers a superior VR experience.

Features and Design

Apple’s VR headset is expected to offer both virtual and mixed reality capabilities. Virtual reality immerses users in a fully digital environment, while mixed reality overlays digital elements onto the real world. For example, users could watch movies or play games in VR mode, or interact with holograms or virtual assistants in MR mode.

According to various sources , Apple’s VR headset will feature two chipsets: one for VR applications and one for MR applications. The VR chipset will be similar to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 Plus , which powers devices like Meta Quest Pro . The MR chipset will be based on Apple’s own M2 chip , which offers impressive performance and efficiency for Macs and iPads.

The display of Apple’s VR headset will also be impressive. Reports suggest that it will use a 2,800 pixel-per-inch micro OLED display , which offers high resolution and contrast for realistic visuals. The display will also support eye-tracking technology , which can adjust focus and brightness based on where users look.

One of the most intriguing features of Apple’s VR headset is that it may not have any controllers . Instead of using physical devices to interact with virtual objects or menus, users may rely solely on hand tracking , voice control , and gaze input . This could make the experience more intuitive and natural than using buttons or joysticks.

Battery Life and Compatibility

One of the drawbacks of having such a powerful device is that it may consume a lot of battery power . Reports indicate that Apple’s VR headset may only last for a few hours on a single charge , which could limit its usage for long sessions. To extend battery life , some sources claim that Apple may use an external battery pack that connects wirelessly to the headset.

Another potential limitation of Apple’s VR headset is its compatibility with other devices . Some reports suggest that it may require an iPhone or iPad to function , similar to how Meta Quest 2 requires a Facebook account . Other reports suggest that it may work independently without any external device . It remains unclear how Apple will handle this aspect of its product.

Conclusion

Apple’s VR headset is one of the most anticipated products in tech history . It promises to deliver an unparalleled immersive experience with cutting-edge technology and design . However, it also faces some challenges with pricing , availability , battery life , and compatibility . Whether it can live up to its hype remains to be seen .

However, numerous rumours have surfaced in recent months suggesting that a release date is planned for this year, with a declaration anticipated at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June. The next big software releases, including as iOS and MacOS, are generally the emphasis of WWDC, but last year’s event stunned attendees with fresh hardware announcements, including the introduction of the M2 processor and the first products using the new silicon.