Apple’s months-long-awaited augmented reality and virtual reality headset is rumored to be showcased at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June.
However, a top analyst on Thursday cast doubt on whether the mixed reality headset will make its big debut at WWDC 2023. Apple has pushed back the headset’s production schedule by another one to two months according to a tweet from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The delay “adds uncertainty” to the announcement of the helmet at WWDC, he added.
Apple revealed this week that its annual WWDC event, which usually showcases its latest software, will begin on June 5. And Bloomberg mentioned last month that the company plans to unveil the headset at this event.
Apple’s AR/VR headset remains largely a mystery
Apple’s AR/VR headset remains largely a mystery. The device, believed to be in the works for years, would compete with AR and VR hardware from Meta, Microsoft and others. Apple’s headset could cost up to $3,000 and feature similar specs to Meta’s Quest Pro.
If Apple unveils a headset at the WWDC conference, it could be the first in a series of devices. Apple is reportedly working on AR glasses as well as a more affordable VR headset to follow up on this first iteration.
Still, the development of the first model is a real gymkhana. On the one hand the headphones of Apple divides internally. Some employees of the Apple brand remain skeptical about the project and have left the development teams “because they are not convinced that the product will appeal to customers”. But Apple executives decided it was better to enter the VR fray now rather than wait years for the perfect product to be achievable.