Apple reportedly planning VR headset for next year
Bloomberg says iPhone maker is planning to launch a niche stand-alone VR device in preparation for a more mainstream AR play
Apple is planning to launch a stand-alone virtual reality headset next year, according to a Bloomberg report.
Citing "people with knowledge of the matter," Bloomberg said the headset is intended "to be a pricey, niche precursor to a more ambitious augmented reality product" that would have greater aspirations as a mainstream product.
In addition to being more expensive than existing VR headsets, the Apple VR headset is expected to feature higher resolution visuals as well.
Apple is also reportedly making the device lighter by giving it a fabric exterior and smaller by eliminating space headsets usually leave open to accommodate users wearing glasses.
Instead, the company is working through the logistics of a system where custom prescription lenses can be inserted into the headset.
Apple has long been reported to be headed into the VR and AR market.
In 2017, Bloomberg said the company was eying a 2020 launch for an AR headset.
Last year, Bloomberg said the company was instead working on a combination VR/AR headset for 2021 or 2022, with lightweight AR glasses to follow in 2023.