Based on the prices of current AR headsets, analysts predict that Apple's upcoming AR/VR device will require a monthly subscription.
Apple's first AR/VR headset has been repeatedly priced at $1,000, $2,000 or $3,000. Now the Trendforce analysts For the first time, a subscription comes into play, which may even be required. According to Trendforce, the commercial market is currently dominated by the HoloLens 2. The company believes that the "strong sales" of Oculus and Microsoft "will likely force Apple to launch corresponding products this year to compete."
Apple AR/VR headset: Which path will Apple choose?
However, given the hardware performance requirements and gross profit margins, Apple will likely target the commercial market and follow the same pricing strategy as with the HoloLens.
Trendforce expects "hardware priced in the thousands of dollars." Trendforce also believes in "a monthly software subscription solution." Currently, Microsoft's HoloLens 2 hardware (base model starting at €3,849) is offered as a one-time purchase. Other companies lease it or purchase it on installments. Subscriptions are also available for the HoloLens 2, but these appear to only apply to third-party apps. Since apps are required for every AR or VR headset, Trendforce seems to expect Apple itself to follow third-party HoloLens 2 developers in charging an app subscription. The HoloLens 2 will be marketed to industrial and commercial users. Although Apple is better known for consumer devices, previous rumors have suggested that the first Apple AR/VR headset will be aimed at enterprises and developers. (Photo by Khoamartin / Bigstockphoto)
