Apple AR Now in Focus

After years of speculation and postulation about Apple’s first venture into augmented reality hardware, noted tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that that piece of hardware, a headset, will launch in the second quarter of 2022.

Apple’s Resident Genius

Kuo cites genius Electronic Optical in a recent research note as key to this new development timeline with the supplier providing parts to Apple, Sony, and Facebook for use in next-gen VR and AR devices. Not only that, but Genius is also apparently providing Apple with wide-angle and telephoto lenses for the next generation of iPhones. The forthcoming Apple VR/AR device is believed to come equipped with more than a dozen tracking cameras to tailor use to specific individuals in specific situations.

Facebook, Sony, and Apple all appear to be aiming to release next-gen devices before the end of 2022. Rivaling the ongoing seasonal gaming console wars, this could be seen as another clue that VR is shaping up to be a gaming medium primarily. Clearly, VR’s myriad uses will still be actively enjoyed and employed, but gaming could very well become the prime driving force behind new VR tech developments – or at least those that within reach of average consumers.

Apple on the Move

Kuo noted that the headset would likely sport “video-see-through” technology to enable users visual access to the real and virtual world simultaneously. In a move typical of Apple, it seems the device will be more capable of being worn in public or groups than many current VR and AR devices. The more people are seen wearing Apple’s new device (or devices), the greater market penetration the company can expect. It’s one thing to hear a friend talk about their hot new VR headset but another thing entirely to see it in use by members of the general public as you go about your day trying to convince yourself you don’t need to spend a hefty chunk of change on new tech.

Kuo predicts a price point around $1000. Bloomberg has suggested an even steeper price. Whatever Apple’s highly anticipated contribution to the VR/AR market ends up costing, you can be sure it’ll be a hot, if expensive, commodity. From what we do know – and what can be safely assumed of Apple – the headset is likely to favor portability, comfort, style, and an almost viral-like trendiness. Undoubtedly suitable for many kinds of VR and AR gaming and entertainment, it’s also of interest to those with more adult activities in mind.

For VR porn users committed to remaining a “Mac Person,” dropping a grand on what they’ll likely consider the piece of VR hardware they’ve been waiting for may not be a big deal. For the unconverted, Apple will have to make a pretty solid case for what it no doubt hopes to be an indication of its direction to come for decades. Whether this device will be for developers or the general public remains to be seen.