As we approach Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday, June 5, the anticipation is reaching a stonking high. The star of the show? Apple’s new mixed-reality headset, which might go by the name of Reality Pro or XR Pro, running on the rumored operating software called xrOS.
This headgear, described as a high-tech pair of ski goggles, is designed with an external screen to project the wearer’s facial expressions and eyes. Built with glass, carbon fiber, and aluminum, it features several external cameras for video passthrough. This allows users to experience the fusion of the physical world and the virtual environment simultaneously.
The headset is poised to be a stonking step forward in communication, video consumption, wellness, gaming, and productivity. Some insiders have gone as far as to label it a ‘status symbol’ and a glimpse into the ‘future of computing’. Powered by an M2 chip with a whopping 16GB of RAM, the device promises to deliver an unprecedented user experience.
Battery life is a key consideration in wearable tech, and Apple appears to have tackled this by employing an external battery pack that connects to the headset via a wire. The battery life is touted to last about two hours per charge.
The headset’s operation is expected to break from tradition, utilizing eye and hand control rather than handheld controllers. By simply looking at an item to highlight it and pinching their fingers to select it, users can navigate the virtual space. With Siri onboard and an array of microphones and speakers mounted near the user’s temples, the device offers a comprehensive audio-visual experience. However, it will rely on AirPods for enhanced spatial audio.
A standout feature is the rumored display: two 1.41-inch Micro OLED screens, each with 4,000 ppi, capable of exceeding 5,000 nits of brightness. Each eye will be treated to a 4K resolution, paving the way for a truly immersive experience.
The buzz around the price suggests a hefty $3,000 tag, and the release date remains speculative but is expected to be months after the announcement, possibly in September or later.
While all this information is currently based on rumors and leaks, the official announcement by Apple is eagerly awaited. The unveiling of this groundbreaking device might just redefine our expectations of mixed-reality technology.
Sources:
- Forbes: Everything We Know So Far About Apple’s Mixed-Reality Headset: Price, Name, Reveal Date
- The Verge: Apple’s rumored AR / VR headset could have 4K per eye, 5,000 nits of brightness
