Apple’s VR/AR Headset: The Latest Rumors and Leaks About the Highly Anticipated Release
Apple, the tech giant known for its innovative products, is rumored to be working on a new device that combines virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. The device, referred to as the Apple’s VR/AR headset, has generated a lot of buzz and speculation among tech enthusiasts and experts.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the information available about this rumored device and what it could mean for the future of VR and AR technology.
While no official information has been released by Apple, leaks and reports have provided some insight into what the VR/AR headset might look like and what it will be capable of.
Based on these reports, the headset is expected to have a unique design, with a build made of aluminum glass and carbon fiber, and a full-on display that shows the user’s facial expressions. Interaction with the headset will be through gestures and Siri, and it will support AR apps, VR apps, and 2D iOS apps.
Section 1: Design and Build
One of the most talked-about aspects of the rumored VR/AR headset is its design and build. According to leaks and reports, the headset will have a unique look, with a build made of aluminum glass and carbon fiber.
The cameras, which are said to total 15 in number, will be blended with the body of the headset for aesthetic reasons.
The headset is expected to have a dark body to blend in the cameras, with a silver version also rumored to exist.
The design of the headset is said to be rounded on the bottom to accommodate the user’s nose, as the headset is expected to use pancake lenses that are much thinner than traditional Fresnel lenses.
The headband will have a similar design to the AirPods Max, with telescopic rods and a simple velcro strap for adjusting the length.
The display on the front of the headset is expected to be a full-on display that shows the user’s facial expressions.
The display is rumored to feature an ultra-low refresh rate and reduced power consumption, and will become more static when the user is not being expressive.
The design and build of the VR/AR headset is shaping up to be a unique combination of form and function, with a focus on aesthetic appeal and user comfort.
The blend of aluminum glass and carbon fiber, pancake lenses, and a full-on display are all expected to contribute to a truly innovative device that sets a new standard for VR and AR technology.
Display and Interaction
The display and interaction features of the rumored VR/AR headset are shaping up to be just as innovative as its design and build.
The headset is expected to support eye tracking for full-width head rendering, which means that it will only render the part of the image that the user is looking at in high resolution, while keeping the rest of the image at a lower quality to save on processing power.
The headset is also rumored to include iris scanning for authentication purposes, such as payments and app purchases.
Additionally, the headset is expected to have facial recognition capabilities, with cameras placed in the headset to capture the user’s expressions.
As for interaction, the headset is said to lack physical controllers, and users will instead interact with the device through gestures and Siri.
A digital crown, similar to the one found on the Apple Watch, is rumored to be present on the headset and will allow users to switch between VR and AR modes. Siri can be activated by holding the crown, and a power button will also be present on the headset.
Overall, the display and interaction features of the VR/AR headset are shaping up to be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for a seamless and immersive experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | The headset will feature a full-on display on the front, which can show the user’s facial expressions. The display is rumored to have an ultra-low refresh rate and reduced power consumption, allowing it to display a user’s facial expressions while in the headset, as well as static images when not in use. |
| Eye Tracking | The headset will support eye tracking for full-width head rendering, which means that it will only render the part of the image that the user is specifically looking at in high resolution, while keeping the rest of the image at a lower quality to save on processing power. |
| Facial Recognition | The headset is rumored to include facial recognition cameras, likely used for displaying the user’s facial expressions on the external display. |
| Iris Scanning | The headset is rumored to include iris scanning, which would be used for authenticating payments and buying apps. |
| Digital Crown | A digital crown is rumored to be present on the right hand side of the headset, allowing the user to switch between VR and AR modes and activate Siri. |
The eye tracking, iris scanning, and facial recognition capabilities are expected to take VR and AR technology to new heights, while the gesture and Siri-based interaction will make using the headset a breeze.
Features and Functionality
The features and functionality of the rumored VR/AR headset are set to be just as impressive as its design and display.
According to the latest reports, the headset will feature 15 cameras in total, with the largest being a modern iPhone sensor used for passthrough, allowing users to see the outside world for AR apps.
Ultroid modules will be used for tracking, and the headset will feature cameras on the top, bottom, and sides to capture the user’s surroundings.
The headset is expected to support 2D iOS apps, AR apps, and VR apps, and the real-time eye tracking, facial recognition, and gesture-based interaction will provide users with an immersive experience.
The digital crown, similar to the one found on the Apple Watch, is expected to allow users to switch between VR and AR modes and activate Siri.
One unique aspect of the headset is that it will not feature an internal battery. Instead, the battery will be external and worn around the waist, connecting to the headset via a cable.
This will allow users to easily swap out batteries, with each expected to last for approximately 2 hours.
Overall, the features and functionality of the VR/AR headset are shaping up to be top-notch, offering users a seamless and immersive experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 15 Cameras | The headset is rumored to have 15 cameras, including video cameras and LIDAR modules, concealed in the body for aesthetic reasons. The cameras will be used for passthrough, tracking, and facial recognition. |
| AR and VR Apps | The headset will support AR and VR apps, allowing users to explore virtual environments and use AR apps. |
| 2D iOS Apps | The headset will also support 2D iOS apps, allowing users to use their favorite iOS apps in a VR or AR environment. |
| Gesture and Siri Interaction | The headset will lack physical controllers, and users will interact with the headset through gestures and Siri. |
The combination of eye tracking, facial recognition, and gesture-based interaction, along with the support for AR and VR apps, is expected to set this headset apart from its competitors.
Apple AR/VR Headset: Release and Cost
The release of the highly anticipated VR/AR headset from Apple has been the subject of much speculation, with initial rumors suggesting an announcement in January.
However, the latest reports indicate that the announcement has been delayed to the company’s annual WWDC developer conference.
BREAKING: Apple’s AR/VR headset will be unveiled at WWDC in June 🍎‼️
— AppleTrack (@appltrack) February 15, 2023
This is a delay from the March/April announcement timeframe that we heard initially… pic.twitter.com/NmbXaAiOlC
This makes sense, as the headset is expected to rely heavily on developers to create the AR and VR apps that will make it a success.
In terms of cost, the premium version of the headset is expected to be priced at $3000, making it one of the more expensive VR/AR headsets on the market.
However, a cheaper version is also in the works and expected to be released in 2024, with a cost closer to that of an iPhone.
Despite the higher cost and delayed announcement, many tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the release of Apple’s VR/AR headset, eager to see what the company has in store.
Whether you’re a VR/AR aficionado or just curious about the technology, it’s clear that the release of this headset is an event that shouldn’t be missed.
