Earlier this month XR Source reported on the rumour that Apple would be unveiling its first mixed reality (MR) headset this Spring. Now there’s a new rumour. Bloomberg reports that Apple is now postponing the launch of another device, an augmented reality (AR) headset, due to technical challenges.
No further details were revealed regarding what these challenges might have been for the Apple AR glasses. Just that the postponement is indefinite. That hasn’t affected the MR headset by the sound of things, with a launch still expected this year at a price of around $3,000 USD.
That price puts Apple’s device in the same region as Magic Leap 2 ($3,299) or Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 ($3,500). These are solely enterprise-focused headsets. Then you have Meta Quest Pro or the upcoming HTC VIVE XR Elite, retailing for $1,499 (£1,499) and $1,099 (£1,299) respectively. These again are business-oriented MR devices, but they have a consumer side as well. Additionally, they support VR and augmented reality (AR) video games, for example, the Quest Pro can play Quest 2 titles.
Hence why the report notes that instead of the Apple AR glasses, the company will instead focus on reducing the cost of the MR one. These will be achieved by using components on par with the iPhone instead of its more expensive Macs. A cheaper follow-up is then expected as early as 2024 or 2025. That may put off buyers if a newer, cheaper one is around the corner.
Of course, take these details with a pinch of salt, as Apple has yet to divulge anything officially. It is a very secretive company after all.
Do you think these rumours are true? Would you even consider buying a $3K Apple MR headset? Let us know in the comments below.