Recently, reports of Apple’s augmented reality (AR) endeavours have been popping up quite frequently. A new one suggests the company will not be making it for a 2020 release as initially expected.
Instead, Apple is planning to release its first AR headset in 2022. A sleeker pair of AR glasses will come after the headset, in 2023. Internal presentations indicate that the delay may be attributed to difficulties in developing the tech.
The Apple AR headset that’s now planned for a 2022 unveiling will reportedly have both VR and AR capabilities. It will also make use of cameras to map the real world. A high-resolution display will then show both the real world from the camera and virtual objects that make up the AR component.
The sleeker glasses will come after, and are meant to be worn for longer periods of time. Prototypes for these have been described as looking more like the concept render we’ve seen previously. Apple is also experimenting with lenses that darken when in operation. This is will seemingly be a sign to onlookers that the user is occupied with the content from the glasses.
As it is now, it’s unknown as to which of the two involves Valve in its development process. What is known, on the other hand, is that Apple is serious about its work in AR. The company’s senior managers believe that the AR glasses could replace the iPhone in about ten years.
(Source: The Information via The Verge. Image: iDrop News, USPTO)
