Kuo has previously claimed that a second-generation headset would be in the works, stating that it would be lighter, faster, sleeker, and offer battery improvements. It will apparently feel much more weightless and boast a new design optimized to fit an improved battery system. He previously claimed it would arrive in 2024, but now appears to have pushed this back to 2025.
Where is Apple’s first-generation AR/VR headset?
Previous reports indicate Apple’s rumored $3,000 AR/VR headset is tipped to enter mass production in either August or September. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman states the Cupertino tech giant is gearing up to launch a slew of new products from this fall through to the first half of 2023. In that list, he mentions the mixed reality headset, and that it could be powered by the recent M2 chip. Apple has a habit of updating its products frequently. If the mixed reality headset does arrive at the end of 2022 or start of 2023, there’s reason to believe the company would offer a second-generation model two years later. Still, since there’s nothing concrete about Apple’s AR/VR headset (aside from Tim Cook hinting at it), this is currently just speculation. Kuo also offered more details about the first-generation head-mounted display, stating that it will “adopt two 3P Pancake modules (one for each eye).” However, the second-gen model’s Pancake lenses will likely offer an improved visual experience and form factor design. We also know Apple’s first mixed reality headset is expected to be equipped with Wi-Fi 6/6E for an improved wireless experience, and is tipped to compete with other highly anticipated VR devices set to arrive in 2022, such as Meta’s rumored high-end VR headset Project Cambria. Only time will tell what Apple has in store, but we’re sure to see an iPhone 14 and possibly a new rugged Apple Watch for extreme sports be introduced later this year.
