It looks like Apple is exploring on the idea of digital glasses similar to Google Glass. According to reports, the Cupertino company is working on augmented reality glasses that could launch as early as 2018.
According to Bloomberg, the device would connect wirelessly to iPhones, and will display images and other information right on the glasses itself, and may use augmented reality too. Citing anonymous sources, Bloomberg says that Apple has ordered small quantities of near-eye displays from a supplier for testing.
Google Glass
It’s not a surprise that Apple is interested in augmented reality. Over the past few years, Apple has been acquiring various companies that focuses on AR software, 3D mapping and computer vision like PrimeSense, Metaio and Flyby; just two months ago, Apple even hired AR and VR experts. Even Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, has expressed interest in the technology.
“AR can be really great, and we have been and continue to invest a lot in this. We are high on AR for the long run. We think there are great things for customers and great commercial opportunity.” – Tim Cook said in a conference call with analysts back in July.
Don’t expect to see any products anytime soon though, there are still a lot of things to consider like trying to fit everything into a pair of slim glasses that doesn’t look too dorky.
