A rumored Apple mixed-reality headset could have a set of high-end eye and hand sensors and cameras, interchangeable headbands and a visor-like design, according to a new report.
The device could have more than a dozen cameras for tracking hand movement and for showing users a video channel of the world. It could also have advanced eye-tracking technology and high-resolution 8K displays, along with a bunch of other features. The information reported Thursday.
Features of Apple MR headphones
The state-of-the-art prototypes and conceptual images of the device show a curved visor-shaped form factor that adheres to the face with an interchangeable mesh material and headbands. The information created a conceptual representation of the headphones based on images from Apple prototypes.
Credit: the information
Instead of an augmented reality (RA) device, Apple sources said the visor is known internally as an MR device because of its “ability to combine virtual reality experiences with games and other applications that use objects. of the real life that surrounds the person wearing the headphones “.
Currently, the focus of the device could be games or possibly productivity and education applications. The device, codenamed N301, is said to immerse a user in a fully virtual environment such as Oculus Quest. It will also block the user’s peripheral vision, but will pass a worldview around him to create a mixed reality effect.
In addition to manual and eye tracking, Apple is also developing other control mechanisms. One possible method would be a thimble-like device that would be carried on a user’s finger and allow them to control the software. It is unclear whether the accessory is included or sold separately.
Some prototypes also appear to have a physical sphere or crown on the side. All versions appear to have LIDAR technology, which Apple already uses in its line of iPhone and iPad Pro to quickly map objects and environments.
An external display of the device may show information to users when not in use. Interchangeable tapes could include space audio technology such as AirPods Max or AirPods Pro. Users will be able to charge it with a cable, though Apple is also working on an interchangeable header with extra battery life.
According to Apple sources, the MR device will come equipped with internal chips. It is possible that Apple is also planning to reduce the power of the computer by showering lower quality graphics in the user’s peripheral vision. The inclusion of 8K screens will make your overall picture quality far superior to other consumer headphones and even most high-end TVs.
Release date and price of Apple MR headphones
The device could be shipped as early as 2022. According to reports, Apple has tapped Pegatron to mount it. However, due to the complexity of the device and the risk involved in entering a new niche product market, Apple could eventually decide to undo or file the project.
The price could add to the risk. In 2020, Apple reportedly discussed the price of the device at around $ 3,000, more expensive than a MacBook Pro, but less expensive than Microsoft’s $ 3,500 HoloLens
Initially, Apple has talked about a goal to ship about 250,000 units of the device in its first year of launch. This is mainly due to its high price.
Apple’s past works in virtual and augmented reality
Apple has been developing virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality technology for years. In addition to rumors about various headset devices and his public work at ARKit, the Cupertino tech giant also has a lot of patents related to worn-out devices.
Many of these patents and patent applications focus on eye tracking, which is said to have the MR handset. Other patents detail different systems, including technology to prevent users from encountering real-world objects while immersed in a virtual environment.
In March 2020, a first leak of iOS 14 also suggested that Apple was working on driver-like accessories for a virtual reality product.
MR headphones aren’t the same device as the rumored AR-based Apple Glass either. This device is said to have a more glasses-like device, a much lower price, and a greater focus on complementing an iPhone in the day-to-day life of the user.
In September 2020, a former Apple executive predicted that Apple’s first foray into worn-out visual devices would be a virtual reality (rather than an augmented reality).
In accordance with The information, Apple is still working on a pair of “lightweight smart glasses designed to superimpose objects on a person’s view of the real world.” This device, which faces strong technological hurdles, is still years away from being launched.
In October 2019, Apple planned to ship its MR headphones in 2022 and the AR “Apple Glass” device in 2023. Those plans may have changed.