There are many rumors going around about Apple developing an AR/VR device for about a year now. People are also wondering if Apple is going ahead with a VR headset and what would it look like? As Apple has hired experts in VR and filed for patents, it seems that Apple is indeed investigating, and maybe building prototypes of AR/VR devices. As Microsoft, Google, and Facebook all are manufacturing AR/VR devices, it seems unlikely that Apple would refrain from doing so. Take a look at some details of Apple’s AR/VR rumors:
What would Apple’s AR/VR design be like?
Image Source: appps.jp
According to the patent that Apple has filed, the goggles might resemble motorcycle or ski goggles. The goggles might also have breathable components such as breathable foam resting on the user’s face. The user would also be able to move the components meant for display generation to align with his/her eyes. In some models, the goggles may have data processing parts which could be operated to adjust the right and left images, which are generated by optical parts displaying 3D media or take into account the user’s eyesight problems. The patent was filed in 2007, may, before the release of the iPhone.
Is Apple working on AR glasses?
Apple’s next project is rumoured to be augmented reality (AR) glasses like Google Glass, and not the VR headset. Apple has even discussed the hardware with its suppliers and ordered a few near-eye displays to test internally. Sources claim that if the internal testing is satisfactory, the glasses would connect wirelessly to the iPhone and display data, images and information directly in the wearer’s field of view. The glasses are supposed to be out in 2018, but there’s a possibility that Apple might scrap it altogether too!
On the other hand, Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO’s comments seem to be indicating that Apple Glasses would be a reality soon.
Which will be out first AR or AR glasses?
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It’s clear that Apple is interest in AR but the question is in which form will users be able to enjoy the tech first, via a wearable or via iPhones. There are reports that the iPhone’s camera team are working on AR features so it might be that we get AR on iPhones first. The features that are being worked on are the ability to change a photo’s or its surrounding’s depth, or isolate objects and place virtual effects on people, just like Snapchat.
Tim Cook is of the opinion that AR is as big as the smartphone idea. Even though VR is much more engrossing and immersive, he believes that right now, people are more acceptable to the AR concept as they do not like to be cut off from their surroundings. AR allows them to be removed from reality while still being connected to it. According to Cook, AR can be aimed at all people, just as the smartphone and iPhone is meant for all.
Apple might have a mobile AR solution
The rumor is that Apple might have a secret team working to bring AR to mobiles. You might find the next version of the iPhone integrated with AR tech. The idea is to introduce people to AR, making them comfortable with the tech, so that they would be more open to buying the AR glasses when they are launched. Sources claim that Apple has hired a HMD expert which points to Apple’s AR initiative being a long term commitment.
Apple’s working on VR too
People are speculating on Apple developing VR as it has hired quite a few app engineers with 3D experience, including VR. Another report from Financial Times claims that Apple has successfully developed a VR prototype, and is testing it internally.
Apple has also bought quite a few companies working in the VR field, including PrimeSense, Metaio, FlyBy Media and Faceshift.
Apple’s Robert Scoble discussed in a pod cast that Apple might release its AR glasses as early as 2017, maybe with the launch of its new campus or with the iPhone 8 in 2017, September. Hope it’s not just a rumor and we really get to use Apple’s AR/VR glasses this year!
