Potential Delay in Release of Apple's Augmented Reality Headset
In a surprising turn of events, the WWDC keynote lacked any explicit discussion about augmented or virtual reality. While there were subtle hints, such as virtual maps, live text, and Visual Look Up, Apple opted against using this platform to unveil its plans for this technology.
Although we weren't expecting AR hardware, a glimpse of the rumored "realityOS" wasn't entirely out of the question. Apple would eventually need to garner developer support and interest, which could potentially occur during the WWDC sessions. However, the grand reveal of Apple's augmented reality strategy had to be postponed.
Following the keynote, renowned Apple analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, provided an updated timeline. Due to ongoing lockdowns in China, Apple's AR/MR headset, initially projected for Q1 2023, is now expected in Q2 of the next year. Kuo had previously suggested Apple wouldn't announce a product so early, giving competitors ample time to replicate the technology.
Here's Kuo's proposed schedule for Apple's AR headset and software platform:
- EVT (Engineering Validation and Testing) starting from Q3 2022.
- Apple event in January 2023.
- Dev toolkit send two to four weeks later (late February 2023).
- Pre-orders begin in Q2 2023.
- In-store before WWDC 2023.
If this timeline holds true, and manufacturing goes smoothly, then Apple's mixed reality headset may hit stores by next summer. Keep in mind that while Kuo often relies on unnamed sources, these predictions are purely speculative. Although they align with other top analysts' expectations, treat these claims with a healthy dose of skepticism.
The anticipated headset is said to sport an innovative three-display configuration, combining dual 4K OLED microdisplays with at least six optical modules. This setup aims to deliver continuous "video see-through AR services." Powered by M1 Pro-level technology and equipped with 14 built-in cameras for advanced tracking, the device is expected to carry a premium price tag, currently projected at $3,000.
(Enrichment Data:} According to additional sources, Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that Apple's AR/MR headset, specifically the Apple Vision Pro, might receive an updated version with the M5 chip in 2025. Regarding the Apple Glasses, Kuo predicts a 2026 release date, based on the development timeline of the metalenses they are likely to utilize.[1]
- Despite the absence of any significant mention during the WWDC keynote, tech buzz surrounding Apple's future plans for augmented reality continues, with rumors circulating about the potential launch of a new operating system named "realityOS."
- The physical design and specifications of the anticipated AR/MR headset, such as its three-display configuration and M1 Pro-level technology, have been the subject of much speculation in the tech world.
- While analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's timeline for Apple's AR headset, including the release of the EVT phase, developer toolkits, and in-store availability, provides some insight into the future of tech and the role that augmented reality is expected to play, it should be viewed as purely speculative until confirmed by Apple.
- The rumored WWDC sessions may provide an opportunity for Apple to engage with developers and gather interest in the upcoming virtual reality technology, which is crucial for the successful rollout of products like the augmented reality headset.
