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According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the rumored Apple mixed reality headset is likely to debut in January 2023, accelerating the growth of the entire headset market.
In a Thursday blog post, Kuo outlined some of his expectations for the future AR and VR industry. Specifically, his analysis focuses on how Meta competes when Apple enters the arena.
Kuo calls future Apple VR devices a potential “headset industry game changer.” I added that the launch of “probable” devices in early 2023 will accelerate the rapid growth of the headset sector.
“Apple has repeatedly focused on AR, but I think Apple AR / MR, which supports video see-through, can also provide a great immersive experience,” Kuo wrote. “Therefore, the launch of Apple AR / MR will further increase the demand for immersive gaming / multimedia entertainment.”
Many existing suppliers are also in the supply chain, as analysts say AR / MR headsets will be the “most complex product” Apple has ever touched.
In addition, Kuo said Apple’s position in the industry offers many competitive benefits, including allowing the company to refrain from joining the Metaverse Standards Forum.
“After Apple launched the AR / MR headset, Apple’s global rivals competed to mimic it, taking the headset hardware industry to the next stage of rapid growth, with related services and content. I think it will benefit the ecosystem, “he says.
Some expected Apple to announce or launch an AR / MR device during the WWDC 2022, but that wasn’t ultimately successful. However, according to a report back in May, Apple’s mixed reality headsets have reached the “advanced” stage of development, and the device may be ready for release by 2023.
The AR / MR headset itself is expected to be a premium headset focused on virtual reality or mixed reality experiences and games, rather than dedicated augmented reality glasses like the so-called “Apple Glass”.
It will reportly feature a pair of 4K OLED displays, 15 camera modules, and a more powerful chip similar to the M1 than Apple’s A-series. It is expected to cost around $ 3000.