Apple's mixed reality headset, also known online as the Apple AR/VR headset, could cost less than $3,000. According to a report, the expensive development and components justify the potential price.
The lengthy development process of the Apple AR/VR headset has meant that its release is a long time coming and may not happen until late 2022 or 2023. It is expected to be a premium device, with rumors suggesting it will be priced between $1,000 and $3,000, but Apple may be planning to price somewhere in the middle of that range. Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman reported in his Power On newsletter that Apple is internally discussing price points for the headset "above $2,000." Although Apple typically charges a higher price for its hardware than its competitors, the company is apparently doing so because of "some of its internal technology." Gurman summarizes some of the rumors about the headset so far, including the use of dual processors on par with the M1 Pro, the use of 8K resolution screens, special lenses, and "advanced audio technology."
Apple AR/VR headset: What will it be called?
The cost of these elements, as well as the seven-year internal development costs, are believed to justify the high price. The chip is believed to be similar to the M1 Pro in that it requires advanced graphics performance. The M1 uses an eight-core GPU while the Pro comes with 14 or 16 GPU cores. As for the focus of the headset, Gurman believes Apple will target gaming, positioning it as a "game developer's dream." For media consumption, Apple could potentially work with partners to create content that can be viewed on a VR device. Communication will also be a strong hook for the headset, with Animojis and a "VR FaceTime-like experience" expected. Gurman suspects the name could be "Apple Vision," but "Apple Reality," "Apple Sight/iSight," "Apple Lens," and "Apple Googles" are also being discussed. (Image: Rendersbyjan)
