Apple Inc.’s long-awaited mixed reality headset is moving closer to fruition, operating system has been given a new name ”Apple xrOS” ahead of an expected debut next year.
The OS that will run the headset is now called “Apple xrOS” instead of “realityOS.” Extended reality (XR), also known as mixed reality by others, is a concept that encompasses both augmented and virtual reality. New versions of essential programs like Messages and Maps are among the features of the OS, according to reports. Additionally, xrOS will provide a software development kit so that other people can make their apps and games.
Everything we know of ARs/VRs powered by Apple xrOS so far
One of those things that are consistently speculated but never appears to be released the Apple VR will be powered by Apple xrOS. Although the corporation has not yet made the device official, we are aware of Apple’s ambitious intentions for augmented reality.
At least three AR and VR headsets are reportedly in the works at Apple. According to the codes, they fall under “N301,” “N421,” and “N602.”
“Apple Reality Pro,” the name for the headset that appeared in trademark applications in late August, is claimed to be the N301. With a probable release in 2023, the headset is anticipated to be a mixed-reality competitor to the Meta Quest Pro.
It appears that the N602 will be the second-generation model, with two variations available to customers. One will offer improvements over the previous model, whereas the other will be a less expensive substitute.
The third, the N421, resembles Apple Glass smart glasses more than a headset.
It’s important to note that the VR/AR headset differs greatly from the alleged Apple Glasses. Those are reportedly only AR-focused and aren’t anticipated to be released anytime soon. The VR/AR headset, which could arrive as early as 2023, is expected to compete with the PSVR 2, Meta Quest 2, and all other top VR headsets.
Here’s a list of everything we know about Apple XrOS-powered ARs/VRs:
- Production might start in March 2023
- Apple xrOS will include iris scanning technology as a security feature
- The price of Apple xrOS-powered VRs will vary between $2000-$2500
- A cheaper version of it will be available a few years after the initial release
Internal politics of the company is causing delays in Apple xrOS’s release
Apple’s headgear project has had problems since at least 2016. As early as 2015, Apple was said to be developing a headset. Some of the first headset prototypes running the Windows operating system from Microsoft Corp. surfaced in 2016. Another prototype allegedly required a small crane to suspend because it was so heavy and featured HTC Vive headsets.
The trip down memory lane is an intriguing peek at Apple’s past, but the more pressing query is: Why hasn’t the headgear since been released? The biggest reasons for the delay have been technical difficulties and internal politics because, unlike the iPhone before it, there was no Steve Jobs or other key figure to steer it. The report further alleges that Apple’s other divisions were unwilling to support the project.
Apple VR vs Apple Glasses
According to all we’ve heard, Apple Glass is made to look and function like a regular pair of light glasses. We’re talking about eyewear that can transmit data, possibly including imagery, to its lenses. On The other hand, Apple VR or mixed reality headset is anticipated to perform similarly to a standard VR headgear, but with additional capability unlocked by several external cameras and sensors.
That’s all the information we’ve about xrOS right now. Apple is surely up to something big but didn’t make an official statement yet so make sure to keep reading us for more Apple xrOS news. Apple is not just interested in technology nowadays, might want to take a look at our article titled Glazers out, Apple in to read rumors about Apple buying Manchester United.
