According to a new report, an Apple mixed-reality headset is rumored to have a range of high-quality eye and hand tracking sensors and cameras, interchangeable headbands and a visor-like design.
The device can hold more than a dozen cameras for tracking hand movements and showing users a video feed of the world. It may also feature advanced eye-tracking technology and ultra-high-resolution 8K displays, along with a ‘bevy of’ other features, The information reported on Thursday.
Features of Apple MR headset
Late-stage prototypes and concept images of the device showcase a curved visor-like form factor that attaches to the face with a mesh material and interchangeable headbands. The information created a concept rendering of the headset based on images of Apple’s prototypes.
Credit: The Information
Rather than a pure augmented reality (AR) device, sources within Apple said the visor is internally called an MR device because of its “ ability to combine virtual reality experiences with games and other applications that use real-life. objects around the person wearing the headset. ”
Currently, the focus of the device may be on games or possibly productivity and education applications. The device, code-named N301, would immerse a wearer in a completely virtual environment like Oculus Quest. It also blocks a user’s peripheral view, but transmits an image of the world around them to create a mixed-reality effect.
In addition to hand and eye tracking, Apple is also developing other control mechanisms for it. One possible method would be a thimble-like device worn on a user’s finger that allows him to control software. It is not clear whether that accessory is included or sold separately.
Some prototypes also appear to have a physical dial or crown on the side. All versions appear to feature LIDAR technology, which Apple already uses in its iPhone and iPad Pro lineup to quickly map objects and environments.
An outward-facing display on the device can show user information when not in use. Interchangeable headbands can contain spatial audio technology such as the AirPods Max or AirPods Pro. Users can charge it with a cable, although Apple is also working on an interchangeable headband with extra battery life.
According to Apple sources, the MR device will be equipped with internal chips. Apple may also plan to reduce computing power by placing lower quality graphics in the user’s peripheral view. The addition of 8K displays will make the overall picture quality much higher than other consumer headsets, and even most high-end televisions.
Release date and price Apple MR headset
The device could ship as early as 2022. Apple reportedly used Pegatron to put it together. Due to the complexity of the device and the risk of entering a new niche product market, Apple could eventually decide to scrap or suspend the project.
The price can increase the risk. In 2020, Apple reportedly discussed the price of the device around $ 3,000 – more expensive than a MacBook Pro but less expensive than Microsoft’s $ 3,500 HoloLens.
Initially, Apple talked about the goal of shipping about 250,000 units of the device in its first year of release. This is largely due to the high price.
Apple’s past augmented and virtual reality work
Apple has been developing virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality technology for years. In addition to rumors of various headset devices and its public work on ARKit, the Cupertino tech giant also holds a slew of patents related to head-worn devices.
Many of those patents and patent applications focus on eye tracking, which the MR headset is said to have. Other patents describe various systems, including technology to prevent users from bumping into real objects while immersed in a virtual environment.
In March 2020, an early iOS 14 leak also suggested that Apple was working on controller-like accessories for a virtual reality product.
The MR headset is also not the same device as Apple’s rumored AR-based “Apple Glass”. That device is said to have a more glasses-like device, a much lower price, and a greater focus on complementing an iPhone in a user’s day-to-day life.
In September 2020, a former Apple executive predicted that Apple’s first foray into head-worn visual devices would be a virtual reality device – rather than an augmented reality device.
According to The information, Apple is still working on “lightweight smart glasses designed to overlay objects over someone’s view of the real world.” Facing steep technological hurdles, that device is still years away from release.
In October 2019, Apple planned to ship its MR headset by 2022 and its “Apple Glass” AR device in 2023. Those plans may have changed