A tech analyst at TF Securities, Ming-Chi Kuo writes that Apple’s new mixed reality AR/VR headset will go into production by the fourth quarter of 2022. Previously, Kuo reported that the new AR/VR headset might launch in Q2, 2022. Now, with delay in the mass production schedule inherently pushes the launch time to late 2022 or early 2023.
The mixed reality Augment Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) headset by design is allegedly like Facebook’s Oculus but will be lightweight, less than 150 grams, for more comfortable all-day wear. And to achieve that the company will use Fresnel’s hybrid ultra-short focal length lenses and Sony micro-OLED displays to deliver an improved gaming experience. However, in his latest note to investors, Kuo reiterates that Apple is looking to offer more than just gaming apps for its mixed reality AR/VR headset.
Apple delays production of its mixed reality AR/VR headset to create a diverse ecosystem beyond gaming apps
To gain a competitive edge over third-party VR devices, previously, Kuo said that Apple might introduce video streaming services like Apple TV+ in its new mixed reality AR/VR headset. Now, he predicts that the production might be delayed because the Cupertino tech company is focusing on perfecting the design and delivering a more diverse software, services, and ecosystem to compete with rival products. He also mentions that the
The AR/MR HMD requires much more industrial design requirements than smartphones because the comfort of wearing them involves so many design details. Therefore, we believe Apple continues to test the best industrial design solutions so far.
The key to the success of the HMD lies in the software, ecosystem, and service. We believe that Apple is positioning its HMD for various applications, not just gaming applications, so the challenge of building software/ecosystem/services is significantly higher than current products/competitors.
Furthermore, Kuo believes that Apple’s mixed reality headset will deliver the “next wave of user interface revolution” because the company is capable of “developing and promoting diverse applications.”
It is also reported that the new mixed reality headset will have to be paired with an iPhone to function. According to Mark Gurman, the company’s Vice President of Engineering, Dan Riccio has joined the AR/VR headset to provide oversight while Mike Rockwell leads the project. Riccio is expected to use his experience with iPhone’s engineering, product design, and project management to wrinkle out challenges faced by the AR/VR headsets project.
via MacRumors
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