An alleged mixed-reality headset from Apple could have a set of state-of-the-art manual and eye tracking cameras and sensors, exchangeable tiaras and a display-like design, according to a new report.
The device can have more than a dozen cameras to track hand movement and show users a video feed from the world. It could also have advanced eye-tracking technology and 8K ultra-high resolution screens, along with a bunch of other features, The information reported on Thursday.
Apple MR headset features
Advanced stage prototypes and conceptual images of the device show a shape similar to a curved display that connects to the face with a mesh material and replaceable headbands. The information created a concept rendering of the headset based on images of Apple prototypes.
Credit: the information
Instead of a pure augmented reality (AR) device, sources within Apple said the display is being referred to internally as an MR device due to its “ability to combine virtual reality experiences with games and other applications that use objects of life. around the person wearing the headset. ”
Currently, the focus of the device can be games or possibly productivity and education applications. The device, code-named N301, is said to immerse the user in a totally virtual environment like the Oculus Quest. It will also block the user’s peripheral view, but let a world view pass around him to create a mixed reality effect.
In addition to manual and eye tracking, Apple is also developing other tracking mechanisms for it. One possible method would be a thimble-like device placed on the user’s finger that would allow him to control the software. It is not clear whether this accessory will be supplied with it or sold separately.
Some prototypes also appear to have a physical dial or crown on the side. All versions appear to have LIDAR technology, which Apple already uses in its iPhone and iPad Pro line to quickly map objects and environments.
An exterior-facing display on the device can show information to users when not in use. The interchangeable headbands can feature space audio technology like the AirPods Max or AirPods Pro. Users will be able to charge it with a cable, although Apple is also working on a replaceable headband with additional battery life.
According to Apple sources, the MR device will come equipped with internal chips. Apple may also be planning to reduce the computer’s power by spreading low-quality graphics in the user’s peripheral vision. The inclusion of 8K monitors will make your overall picture quality far superior to other headsets and even most high-end televisions.
Apple MR headset price and release date
The device can be sold as early as 2022. Apple reportedly hired Pegatron to assemble it. However, due to the complexity of the device and the risk of entering a new niche product market, Apple may decide to discard or archive the project.
The price may increase the risk. In 2020, Apple would have discussed the price of the device around $ 3,000 – more expensive than a MacBook Pro, but less expensive than Microsoft’s $ 3,500 HoloLens.
Initially, Apple talked about a goal to ship about 250,000 units of the device in its first year of release. This is due in large part to its high price.
Apple’s previous augmented and virtual reality work
Apple has been developing virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality technology for years. In addition to rumors about several headset devices and his public work on ARKit, the Cupertino tech giant also has a number of patents related to headgear devices.
Many of these patents and patent applications focus on eye tracking, which MR headphones say they have. Other patents detail different systems, including technology to prevent users from bumping into real-world objects while immersed in a virtual environment.
In March 2020, an iOS 14 leak also suggested that Apple was working on controller-like accessories for a virtual reality product.
The MR headset is also not the same device as Apple’s AR-based “Apple Glass”. It is said that this device has a device more like glasses, a much lower price and a greater focus on complementing the iPhone in the user’s life.
In September 2020, a former Apple executive predicted that Apple’s first take on head-mounted visual devices would be a virtual reality device – rather than augmented reality.
According The information, Apple is still working on a pair of “lightweight smart glasses designed to overlay objects in a person’s view of the real world.” This device, which is facing major technological obstacles, is still years away from being launched.
In October 2019, Apple planned to ship its MR headset by 2022 and its AR device “Apple Glass” in 2023. These plans may have changed