Apple's much-anticipated AR/VR headset is reportedly facing multiple hardware and software issues that might delay its launch until next year. The device was originally rumored to be unveiled last year, and then at the WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) in June of this year with a potential launch later in 2022. It is said to have three displays, at least two of which will reportedly be Sony's high-resolution micro-OLED screens designed specifically for VR. The third one will reportedly be a lower resolution AMOLED display.
Apple's upcoming AR/VR headset has long been rumored, with many concept renders even attempting to guess how it will look. There's also been talk that the device might not need external controllers, instead using TrueDepth technology to recognize hand and finger gestures to create a virtual controller. In general, it is expected to focus on gaming, media consumption, and communication.
In a new report, Bloomberg claims Apple may postpone the announcement of its upcoming AR/VR headset by "at least a few months" due to overheating issues. The device is reportedly also suffering from unspecified problems with its camera, and there are also software challenges that the company is working to fix. Everything considered, there's apparently just too many headwinds for the device at the moment, which might push back its debut until at least the end of this year, or more likely, next year.
AR/VR Headset Support In iOS 16
The problems are apparently the result of using a high-performance processor inside the headset while trying to maintain comfortable temperatures for the wearer. In fact, the problems are reportedly too serious and complicated to be fixed quickly for the device to be released before the end of this year. According to the report, Apple has already told its supply-chain partners that the device is unlikely to be released until 2023. The company, however, is still asking vendors to have units ready by the end of this year so that the actual launch goes without a hitch next year.
Interestingly, Bloomberg claims that Apple might still announce some of the technical aspects of the headset and its software at WWDC 2022 without unveiling the device itself. The company is reportedly building support for its upcoming headset in iOS 16, set to be announced at the next WWDC in June, which might necessitate some of the announcements relating to the headset. For now, and providing the details are correct, consumers probably shouldn't expect Apple's new headset to be available in stores until sometime in 2023.
Source: Bloomberg