Apple’s xrOS Operating System: The Future of Mixed Reality Technology

Apple is developing a new mixed reality operating system, known as xrOS, which blends augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. The company has reportedly shifted away from the original name, Reality OS, and ROS, in favour of a more universal term, xrOS.

They have also trademarked the name in several countries internationally and are currently fighting for the trademark in the US with an unrelated Chinese company who coincidentally filed for the xrOS name in March.

The market for AR and VR headsets is currently dominated by companies such as Meta, Sony, HTC, Lenovo, and Samsung. However, Apple is set to enter the market with their own mixed reality headset, likely to be called the Reality One or Reality Pro, in 2023.

The headset will run on the xrOS operating system and will feature mixed reality versions of apps such as Messages, Maps, FaceTime, and games, as well as video watching and live sports streaming.

The introduction of the headset is expected to be around the middle of 2023, and it is likely to be quite expensive with reported price points between $2,000 and $3,000. The headset will be the most advanced mixed reality device on the market, with the best cameras and displays for AR and VR.

The real magic of the device, however, is how Apple plans to blend the two technologies in a way that has not been seen before by other companies.

One of the key features of xrOS is the ability to seamlessly blend the virtual and physical worlds. This will be achieved through the use of advanced cameras and sensors that can detect and map the environment in real-time. This will allow for the virtual objects to be placed in the real world in a natural and realistic way, creating a truly immersive experience.

Another major advantage of xrOS is the ability to blend AR and VR together in a single device. This will allow users to switch seamlessly between the two modes, depending on their needs and preferences. For example, you could use AR to navigate through a city, and then switch to VR to watch a movie or play a game. This flexibility will make the device more versatile and appealing to a wider range of users.

In terms of hardware, the Reality One or Reality Pro headset will be equipped with the latest displays, sensors, and cameras. This will ensure that the virtual and physical worlds are displayed with high resolution and accuracy, making the experience more lifelike and engaging.

Additionally, the device will feature advanced audio technology, which will provide a realistic and immersive sound experience.

The device will also have a wide range of apps and services that will be available to users. These will include mixed reality versions of popular apps such as Messages, Maps, FaceTime, and games.

Additionally, the device will feature video watching and live sports streaming, which will allow users to watch their favorite shows and sports events in a completely new way. It will also have TV+ available that will allow users to access all the content available on Apple’s streaming platform.

In terms of price, the Reality One or Reality Pro headset is expected to be quite expensive, with reported price points between $2,000 and $3,000. This will make the device a premium product, and it will be targeted at consumers who are looking for the most advanced mixed reality experience on the market.

Apple’s xrOS operating system, and the Reality One or Reality Pro headset that will run on it, will be a game-changer in the mixed reality market.