Apple is about to enter the mixed reality market with its long-awaited Apple VR/AR headset. The device, which has been rumored for years, is expected to be unveiled at WWDC 2023 on June 5, and could be a game-changer for the industry.
What is the Apple VR/AR headset?
The Apple VR/AR headset is a wearable device that can create immersive experiences using both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR is when you are completely immersed in a digital world, while AR is when digital elements are overlaid on your real-world view.
The Apple VR/AR headset is said to have a sleek design that resembles a slimmer version of the Meta Quest 2, one of the best VR headsets available today. It will also have cameras on the outside that will help it scan your surroundings and track your movements.
The headset will run on a new version of Apple’s mobile operating system, possibly called xrOS, and could feature a brand name like Reality One or Reality Pro. It will also have its own app store and support for third-party developers who want to create content for the device.
What can you do with the Apple VR/AR headset?
The Apple VR/AR headset will offer a range of applications and experiences that will appeal to different users. For example, you could use it to watch movies or play games in VR, or to enhance your reality with information or entertainment in AR.
Some of the possible use cases for the Apple VR/AR headset include:
Education: You could learn new skills or explore new places in VR, or use AR to interact with virtual models or diagrams.
Entertainment: You could enjoy immersive media content or socialize with friends in VR, or use AR to add fun effects or filters to your selfies or videos.
Gaming: You could play immersive games or simulations in VR, or use AR to bring games to life in your environment.
Productivity: You could work or collaborate in VR, or use AR to access information or notifications without looking at your phone or computer.
Shopping: You could try on clothes or accessories in VR, or use AR to see how products would look in your home before buying them.
How much will the Apple VR/AR headset cost?
The Apple VR/AR headset is not expected to be cheap. According to some reports, the device could cost as much as $3,000, which is much more than other VR headsets on the market. The high price tag could be due to the advanced technology and components that the device will use, such as high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and sophisticated sensors.
However, the Apple VR/AR headset is not meant to be a mass-market product. Rather, it is seen as a niche device that will target developers and enthusiasts who want to experience the cutting-edge of mixed reality. The device could also serve as a precursor to the rumored Apple Glasses, which are expected to be a more mainstream AR product that could replace the iPhone in the future.
When will the Apple VR/AR headset be available?
The Apple VR/AR headset is expected to be announced at WWDC 2023 on June 5, but it may not be available for purchase until later this year. According to some analysts, the device may face production delays due to supply chain issues and quality concerns. Therefore, it is possible that the device will only ship in limited quantities at first, and may not reach wider availability until 2024.
If you are interested in getting your hands on the Apple VR/AR headset, you may want to tune in to WWDC 2023 and see what Apple has in store for its first mixed reality device. It could be a glimpse into the future of computing and entertainment.