Apple’s much-awaited augmented-reality (AR) glasses will not be launched anytime soon, due to technical challenges. But, the company can still introduce a lower-cost version of the mixed-reality headset as early as 2024 or 2025, according to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman. Earlier, the tech giant planned to release AR glasses after the release of the mixed-reality headset. However, that part of the plan is now on hold.
“The shifting plans underscore Apple’s challenges in pushing into a new industry. The company is betting that AR and VR devices could be a major moneymaker, but the technical challenges of producing a consumer-friendly product have bedeviled much of the tech world,” a Bloomberg report says.
Apple’s mixed reality headset is expected to be launched at the company’s Spring event this year. The headset will combine both augmented and virtual reality, and will cost $3,000 (Rs. 2,45,000 approx). “The hefty price stems from its use of advanced and high-resolution displays, more than 10 cameras, sensors to determine where a user is looking, and both a Mac-grade M2 processor and a dedicated chip for handling AR and VR visuals,” as per the report. Apple is likely to come up with an affordable variant, priced around $1500, to fit into the league of Meta, Oculus, and others.
Reportedly, the tech giant may adopt a dual-device strategy for the upcoming headset, the trademark filings reveal. The documents show two devices with the names “Reality Pro” and “Reality One.” The Pro variant is expected to be the initial model, while the “One” suffix could be the cheaper version. As per the trademark, the dedicated chip will be called a “Reality Processor”.
According to a recent The Information report, Apple is expected to not include the battery in the headset itself to reduce the weight and heating risks of the head-worn product. The battery will connect to the device over a cable and rest in the user’s pocket.
