There have been rumors circulating for some time about an AR/VR headset, to be released by Apple early next year.
According to a report by The Information , the headset will be equipped with more than a dozen cameras to track hand movements, along with two ultra-high-resolution 8K displays and advanced eye tracking technology . The cameras could take a video of the real world, pass it through the headset and display it to the user, creating a “mixed reality effect.”
The information states that internal images from Apple have been released, showing the "prototype" of the set from last year, which show a "sleek, curved visor that connects to the face with a mesh material and features interchangeable heads.".
The report claims that the headband that secures the headset to the userwill feature spatial audio technology, like the AirPods Pro for a surround sound experience, while another optional headband will provide additional battery life. These headbands will likely come in a variety of colors.
Apple is said to be developing multiple ways to control the headset, including a “thim-like device that would be worn on the user’s finger.” The headset could also respond to users’ eye movements and gestures, while a prototype that was released also had a physical button on the side.
Apple is rumored to be internally discussing the price of the headset, which is around $2,500, according to the report. This price would certainly make Apple's headset a niche, high-end product, with the company setting a goal of only making 250,000 units in its first year of release.
Some of these details have been previously reported by Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman , CNET , and other sources, and The Information agrees that the headset will likely launch in 2022 at the earliest. Apple is also rumored to be working on a pair of sleeker and more affordable AR glasses, but those aren't expected until 2023 or later.
