In a move that could shake up the tech industry, Apple is rumored to be releasing a mixed reality (MR) headset this spring. The company, which has been working on AR/VR technology for years, has reportedly shelved its AR glasses project in favor of a cheaper follow-up headset to the one that will be announced this spring.
According to sources close to the matter, the MR headset will be able to toggle between real-world-view with a digital overlay and fully immersive virtual experience. The device can also be used as a display for a user’s Mac or MacBook. Apple is also reportedly working with media companies such as Disney to bring 3D experiences to the MR device and upgrading Apple TV to support a more immersive viewing experience.
The announcement follows Apple’s recent announcement of new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips for its MacBook laptop lineup, as well as the reintroduction of the HomePod smart speaker. There will certainly be an iPhone 15 in the second half of this year.
Despite designing new chips for its current breadwinner, the iPhone, along with its MacBook line, the tech giant has been under pressure to create a new hit product. The company’s growth engine will eventually need a new boost, and MR could be the right medicine to keep it going.
A first-generation Apple MR headset could cost as much as $3,000, however, making an ambitious project like this ready for race day isn’t easy. Meta Quest 2 headsets cost a few hundred dollars, and Meta Quest Pro MR headsets cost $1,500, so that will be prohibitively expensive for across-the-board adoption.
Even so, Apple’s iPhone, MacBook, Watch, and other devices have an extensive ecosystem of devoted fans. Apple’s new product is likely to catch the attention of any of those users interested in MR.
The Apple business itself has not changed much since the company’s final fiscal year 2022 earnings report several months ago, if you believed Apple stock was a buy then. There is still a lot of demand for the iPhone, especially in emerging markets. It may be possible for the Mac to have a great year if it can take some market share from Intel and AMD laptops. Wearable devices like the Watch and iPad could continue to perform well. The company also returns excess cash through stock buybacks, making it wildly profitable. In 2023, a new mixed reality device would be a great addition.
The release of an MR headset could potentially be a game-changer for Apple, as the tech community is already immersed in digital workflows and the younger generation loves binging TV and playing video games. Making these experiences more lifelike and efficient has actual real-world value, and Apple’s reputation for innovation and high-quality products could give it an edge in the MR market.
Of course, as with any rumor, there is always the possibility that the release of an MR headset may not happen, or that it could be delayed. But the fact that CEO Tim Cook spoke about problems with “the metaverse” last year lends credibility to the rumors. Only time will tell if Apple will indeed release an MR headset and what impact it will have on the company’s stock.
