In recent years, information about virtual reality devices has been the order of the day. However, we are surprised that Apple has not yet surprised us with a device of this class. What exactly does Apple envision for its future in the field of augmented reality? Information about Apple’s acquisitions and its new contracts indicates that it could be a device that combines Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality.
Apple Virtual Reality
This device could be launched in 2023, although it could be delayed by several years. There are many brands that have already focused on introducing the best VR headset devices on the market. Apparently, Apple’s AR/VR development accessories consists of more than 1,000 employees, each dedicated to integrating these emerging VR technologies into their upcoming products. This is supported by specific hires by Apple for AR/VR-focused work.
However, Apple has also acquired some organizations that specialize in AR/VR technologies or content adapted to these platforms. From one particular point of view it makes sense: Apple has always said that augmented truth is a rather interesting technology. Therefore, Apple already has the largest offering of augmented reality apps in the world through ARKit-integrated apps in the App Store.
This means that you would not switch from apps focused on augmented truth to a headset platform that offers a more immersive and friendly experience. All this while keeping a smartphone in front of you. Apparently, the organization has several prototypes of VR glasses in the pipeline, focused not only on augmented truth but also on virtual reality.
How will be Apple’s VR/AR headset be called?
While most of the leaked information about Apple’s upcoming hybrid (AR/VR) headset has focused more on providing information about its functionality. A current round of trademark filings indicates that Apple may have finally decided on a name for the glasses. As Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman discovered, a sequence of trademark lawsuits have been filed in various territories: the U.S., U.K., E.U., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica, and Uruguay, each with the name “reality.”
The lawsuits incorporate references to Reality One, Reality Pro and Reality Processor. Of course, the news has not yet been confirmed-Apple itself is not directly involved in the trademark filing-but it is not uncommon for the tech giant to use law firms and shadow organizations to cover some of the pre-launch work.
When will Apple’s AR/VR headsets be released?
Regarding Apple’s initial AR/VR headset, the Bloomberg article talks about how it will definitely be an “expensive and niche” choice. In fact, Apple theoretically expects to sell only 180,000 units (on the Mac Pro line) once it hits the shelves. Bloomberg notes that while Apple had originally planned to announce its headset at WWDC 2022: “development challenges related to overheating, cameras, and programming have made road stabilization more complex.” The publication indicates that these issues prompted Apple to delay the announcement until 2023.