The first-generation Apple mixed reality headset with augmented reality and virtual reality technology is expected to launch this year. Initially, the Apple mixed reality headset was reported to debut at a March or April event but rumor mills claim that the tech company pushed the launch by a few months due to engineering issues related to hardware and software.
Now, it is heavily speculated that Apple will unveil its mixed reality headset at WWDC 2023 event in June, along with new software updates like iOS, watchOS, and macOS.
As it is predominantly aimed at developers, Bloomberg believes that the headset and developers conference “are a perfect match” for several reasons.
The audience at the WWDC ’23 is “perfect” for the unveiling of the $3000 Apple mixed reality headset
According to the Apple mixed reality headset rumors, the device is designed for video streaming, AR/VR content, gaming, video conferencing, and more.
It will be equipped with 4K micro-OLED interior displays, an exterior display to show users’ facial expressions, multiple cameras and sensors, LiDAR scanners, and an external battery. The AR/VR headset will feature the eye-tracking capability to only enable full resolution when the user is looking directly and save power (an ultra-low refresh rate) and Apple Watch-like Digital Crown for users to easily and quickly switch views from the virtual world and physical world.
As Apple’s mixed reality headset price tag will be around $3000, it will not appeal to the mass consumers but will be exciting for the developer community. Therefore, the report anticipates its launch at the WWDC ’23 event where the “developer types” will be already present.
With its large developer audience and a week of labs and sessions tied to the announcements, it will be the ideal place for Apple to plant its flag in the mixed-reality market and introduce the category as its next big initiative to carry it many years beyond the iPhone.
Furthermore, the report explains that the company needs third-party apps to make the headset a success in “a market that has been disappointed and confused by efforts from competitors.” Therefore, WWDC ’23 will allow developers to get acquainted with the new xrOS, Apple Reality software.
With the odds already against the headset out of the gate, Apple can’t risk its App Store becoming a dud like it did for the Apple Watch, Apple TV and iMessage. The WWDC venue is of course the perfect place for Apple to debut its Apple Reality software development kit and Mac-based simulator.
