According to a new report, Apple’s long-rumored AR/VR headset which was slated for launch this year could be delayed until 2023 due to issues with overheating. The mixed-reality device was expected to be announced in June during WWDC.
Apple mixed-reality headset may not be announced during WWDC 2022
As per a new Bloomberg report, sources said that the Cupertino tech giant is running into problems related to overheating, in addition to issues with the headset’s software and cameras. Since the headset is rumored to feature multiple displays as well as an M-series chip meant for mobile workstations, it is important for Apple to work on the thermal kinks in the device as soon as possible.
The headset — a high-end device that blends virtual and augmented reality — was targeted for an unveiling at Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June, followed by a release later in the year. But development challenges related to overheating, cameras and software have made it harder to stay on track, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the matter is private.
The issues are said to be forcing a change in Apple’s internal release plans. It is still possible for the device to be announced in 2022 with a release date scheduled for 2023.
The publication notes that the development of the headset has been in the works since 2015. The tech giant initially planned to announce it in 2021 and ship it in 2022, which means that the latest revision in the launch timetable may not have been the first time the headset has been delayed.
So far what we know about the headset’s design is that it is allegedly similar to Facebook’s Oculus device but will be lightweight, less than 150 grams, for more comfortable all-day wear. To achieve that, the company will use Fresnel’s hybrid ultra-short focal length lenses and OLED displays with 3,000 PPI. In addition, the device will feature three displays, not the traditional two.
Powered by an M1-like processor, the headset will also feature advanced hand gesture detection, eye tracking, iris recognition, voice control, skin detection, facial expression detection, and spatial detection.
In terms of price, the headset will cost several thousand dollars since the first-generation headset will be higher-end, aimed at professionals and developers to expand Apple’s ecosystem in AR/VR.
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