Apple is reportedly working on an augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR) headset that is expected to be released in 2024. The headset is said to be codenamed N301, and it is expected to be a high-end device that is priced at around $3,000.
While there are other headsets on the market already, the belief is that Apple getting in on the action will have a huge impact. This could mean we see a boom in AR and VR across many industries that have already made inroads, such as the casino industry, where developments in augmented and virtual reality have improved the customer experience already, according to this report by TechKTimes.
As you read on, we’re going to be taking a look at what we can expect when the launch date is here. We’re also going to consider some of the competitors that are already active in the market and look at where the offering from Apple will fit in.
A look at what we know so far
Apple isn’t known for revealing too much before it reaches an official launch date. However, here’s a look at the information that has trickled out so far:
- Display: The headset is said to feature two 8K displays, one for each eye. This will provide users with a high-resolution and immersive AR/VR experience.
- Processor: The headset is said to be powered by a powerful processor, such as the M2 chip. This will ensure that the headset can handle demanding AR/VR applications.
- Battery life: The headset is said to have a battery that will last for several hours. This will allow users to use the headset for extended periods of time without having to worry about running out of battery power.
- Sensors: The headset is said to have a number of sensors, including cameras, motion sensors, and a depth sensor. These sensors will allow the headset to track the user’s movements and environment, which will provide a more immersive AR/VR experience.
- Software: Apple is said to be developing a new operating system for the headset, which is codenamed rOS. rOS will be designed to take advantage of the headset’s features and provide users with a seamless AR/VR experience.
In addition to the hardware and software features, Apple is also said to be developing a number of AR/VR applications for the headset. These applications are said to include games, productivity apps, and entertainment apps.
What else have we heard about what the Apple headset will offer?
While Apple has told us a little of what’s to come, there are other sources that seem to want to share even more. Of course, these aren’t official announcements and so we will have to wait and see just how reliable the information is, but here’s a look at what else we’ve been told to expect:
- The headset is said to have a passthrough mode that will allow users to see the real world through the headset’s lenses. This will be useful for tasks such as navigation and interacting with physical objects.
- It’s expected to have a field of view of around 120 degrees. This is wider than the field of view of most current AR/VR headsets, which will provide users with a more immersive experience.
- The headset is set to be lightweight and comfortable to wear. This is important for extended use, as users will not want to feel fatigued after wearing the headset for a long period of time.
- The headset is said to be compatible with a wide range of AR/VR applications. This will give users a variety of options to choose from, and it will help to ensure that the headset is a valuable tool for a variety of users
The potential downsides that have been spotted to date
Experts have said that Apple’s AR/VR headset has the potential to be a major success. They say that the headset could be a game-changer for the AR/VR industry and that it could help to make AR/VR more mainstream. However, there are some experts who are sceptical.
They say that the headset could be too expensive and that it could be too bulky and uncomfortable to wear. They also say that the AR/VR market is still in its early stages and that it is not clear if there is a large enough market for Apple’s headset.
Overall, it is still too early to say if Apple’s AR/VR headset will be a success. However, the headset has the potential to be a major breakthrough for the AR/VR industry.
How does the Apple headset stand up against its competitors?
Apple AR/VR Headset
- High-resolution display
- Powerful processor
- Long battery life
- Multiple sensors
- New operating system
- Wide range of applications
Meta Quest 2
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Large library of games and apps
- Easy to set up and use
HTC Vive Pro 2
- High-resolution display
- Wide field of view
- Comfortable to wear
- Large library of games and apps
- Valve Index
- High-quality tracking
- Excellent haptic feedback
- Large library of games and apps
Sony PlayStation VR
- Affordable price
- Easy to set up and use
- Large library of games and apps
Apple’s AR/VR headset has the potential to be a major competitor to these headsets. It has a number of features that are not available on other headsets, such as a high-resolution display, a powerful processor, and a long battery life. It also has a new operating system that is designed to take advantage of the headset’s features.
However, Apple’s AR/VR headset is also more expensive than most of its competitors. It is also not clear if there is a large enough market for Apple’s headset.
Final thoughts on Apple’s new headset
The reality is that Apple isn’t an organisation that does things half-heartedly. We can be sure that the end product will be something that has plenty of benefits and, with its price point, it should be the best headset that we’ve seen so far. Of course, should Apple experience success with this model, you can be sure that competitors will be making tweaks and will be hot on their heels.