When it comes to AR and VR hardware, though, Apple has stood on the sidelines while its competitors have released numerous devices. Previously, VR rigs didn't work with Apple computers. It also said it was working with Valve to bring the Steam VR platform to its desktop Macs. At its June WWDC developer conference, Apple unveiled ARKit to let developers make augmented reality apps for iPhones and iPads. Last year brought the first public efforts by Apple in AR and VR. In 2022, the number should soar fivefold to 120 million units, the analyst firm said, noting the market could be worth nearly $10 billion at that point. Facebook views AR and VR headsets as the future of computing and communication.Ĭonsumers are expected to buy 22 million VR and AR headsets and glasses this year, according to a report from CCS Insight. Companies like the secretive Magic Leap have been pouring millions - if not billions - into development, with the promise that the formats will change the way we see the world. VR and AR, while nascent markets today, are expected to explode over the next several years. Everything would be built into Apple's headset and box, the person said.
In its current state, the box resembles a PC tower, but it won't be an actual Mac computer.Īnd unlike with the HTC Vive, users wouldn't have to install special base stations in a room to detect their location. The box, which would be powered by a custom Apple processor more powerful than anything currently available, would act as the brain for the AR/VR headset. Many of the early examples of popular AR capabilities include games like Pokemon Go or filters and lenses that go over your face in photos on Instagram and Snapchat.Īpple's headset would connect to a dedicated box using a high-speed, short-range wireless technology, according to a person familiar with the company's plans.
The industry has increasingly sided with Cook when it comes to bullishness on augmented reality, which overlays digital images on the real world using special headsets or your phone.