The future of computing may be combining virtual reality with augmented reality for a potentially new immersive experience. Apple is rumored to build its own AR and VR headset hardware to run its xrOS operating system, making it possible for VR and AR apps to create customized content for any location.
This article will explore how Apple’s xrOS operating system could bring VR and AR together, as well as what this device might look like and what we can expect from it. Extended reality (XR) refers to both augmented and virtual reality.
According to rumors, Apple is developing “mixed reality” headgear that will enable both augmented and virtual reality, similar to the Microsoft HoloLens. Augmented reality raises a real-world view but does not replace it. Virtual reality replaces the real world with a computer-generated one. Apple is rumored to be working on an AR/VR headset that will run their upcoming OS, “xrOS,” which will also allow for augmented reality.
Apple is also planning to make a software development kit that helps install third-party apps. It will have an App Store-like structure where the app can be easily downloaded from the App Store. It is also said that Apple will launch a software plug-in for popular game engines like Unity and Unreal to enable game developers to port their 3D games to this new platform quickly.
Apple’s New AR/VR Headset is expected to have a built-in display and integrate virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Current AR/VR devices like Microsoft HoloLens, Oculus Rift, and HTC Vive require connecting wires for the units to be powered. Apple’s headset is said to connect wirelessly with its iPhone line of products directly. This helps create a seamless experience between the headset’s VR and AR content and the user’s iPhone camera input.
Applications like Maps and Messenger would be available within the headset and could use data directly from the phone instead of external connections. This would help make Apple’s headset more powerful and give users a new perspective on the world.
This feature could mean that Apple’s headset is a “smartphone in your pocket,” but with a much better resolution and a larger field of view, which could benefit AR games. For example, users could point their Apple headset at different parts of artwork in an art gallery, get an interactive view of it via their iPhone, and be able to move around it with their head like they would if they were there.
The product may be introduced in the first half of 2023, though there is no specific information to support this, and it may not be available for purchase until the year’s second half.
