Apple may unveil its long-discussed mixed reality headset at a key World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023 event in June.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple already demonstrated the MR 100 device to senior executives last week at the Steve Jobs Theater in California.
The device will reportedly debut for around $3,000.
Why is this story important?
Since 2018, the Technology Development Group, the Apple team behind the mixed reality initiative, has been discreetly showing off the headset to the most senior executives.
The latest preview, however, is said to be the last step before the headset officially debuts in June.
The mixed reality development team has taken this opportunity to rally decision-makers around what could be the company’s next big launch.
A design reminiscent of ski goggles is expected
Apple’s VR mixed reality headset will have a design similar to ski goggles. It will have a carbon fiber frame and an external, belt-mounted, hot-swappable battery pack.
The device will reportedly feature two 4K displays, a rotating dial, side speakers and a headband.
Because of its design, the device may not be suitable for those who wear glasses. So Apple may offer custom prescription lenses for the displays.
The headset will get the ability to track hand and eye movements.
The MR headset may get the ability to track hand and head movements. This feature will allow users to control screen elements with pinch and zoom movements.
In addition, a rotating dial (or Reality Dial) on the device will allow users to zoom in and out of the surrounding video in real time.
Initially, the headset will come with limited media content.
VR headset may have a dedicated coprocessor
It is rumored that the headset will get a modified version of the Apple M2 chipset, paired with a dedicated “Reality” coprocessor.
It is reported that Apple has created its own base engine to support VR games on the device.
The device will be loaded with the xrOS operating system with an interface similar to the iPhone/iPad.
The device will support Siri voice assistance and provide ultra-low latency connectivity for Apple products.
Apple’s MR headset will be suitable for creative professions
The MR headset will be suitable for video conferencing and participating in virtual world events. It will serve as a tool for artists, designers and engineers. The device will function as a high-resolution TV on which you can watch video content created to order.
Apple has set an ambitious sales goal
Apple intends to sell one million headsets in the first year. However, according to Counterpoint Research, less than 500,000 headsets are expected to be sold at retail.
The MR device could be unveiled at WWDC 2023, which usually takes place in June.
However, shipments of the headset could start later this year at $3,000.