While rumors about the Apple VR headset have been around for several years, never before had the rumor mills seemed so convinced. With a series of reliable leaks and a handful of eye-catching purported renders of Apple’s upcoming mixed reality headset, we have got enough credible details to back the claims this time around. So here is everything we know about the Apple VR headset to date.

Initially, I would overlook rumors about the Apple VR headset as merely wild guesses. However, when the guesses recently turned into comprehensive reports complete with intriguing prototypes, I started to take notice. As to what you should expect from the headset, it looks all set to turn over a new page for the VR/AR headset industry, if the rumors turn out to be true.

  • Apple VR Headset Design: Incredibly Sleek and Ultra-Compact
  • Two High-Resolution 8K Displays
  • Stunning Combination of VR and AR
  • Multiple Control Methods
  • 15 Optical Camera Modules
  • Wicked Fast Custom-Designed Chip
  • Full-Fledged App Store
  • Apple Mixed Reality Headset Price and Release Date

Apple VR Headset Design: Incredibly Sleek and Ultra-Compact

Going by the purported images, the Apple VR headset (codenamed N301) seems quite similar to Facebook’s Oculus Quest virtual reality headset. However, Apple’s offering will have a sleek profile with more emphasis on enhancing the comfort level. To achieve an ultra-compact form-factor, the Cupertino giant is rumored to use a combination of high-quality fabrics and lightweight materials.

According to the trusted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the headset will feature a hybrid Fresnel lens design that will encompass the three stacked lenses per eye. The hybrid Fresnel lens design will play a vital role in enabling ultra-short focal lengths, enhanced optical performance, and a wide field of view. Moreover, the unique design will ensure that the headset’s weight remains under 150 grams (5.2oz). Image: Antonio De Rosa

As per reports, the Apple VR headset will feature two high-resolution 8K displays. Boasting a 16K resolution, the headset aims to deliver an unmatched immersive viewing experience.

Equipped with eye-detecting cameras, the VR headset will allow users to see other people standing behind and in front of virtual objects. Rumors suggest that the headset can map surfaces, edges, and even dimensions of rooms with much better accuracy than rivals.

Initially, rumors suggested that the headset will be a full-fledged AR headset with top-of-the-line specs. However, a report from Bloomberg in January 2021 said that it would be a mixed reality headset. According to the report, the headset will focus on amping up the virtual reality experience with some notable augmented reality capabilities.

Based on reports, the headset will feature multiple control methods. One of the most-talked-about controls is said to be a thimble-like device to be worn on a person’s finger. Additionally, the headset will also support hand gestures and respond to the wearer’s eye movements. Pretty much in line with expectations, Apple is also testing Siri input for more convenient controls.

A report from The Information in February 2021 revealed that the Apple VR headset would boast more than a dozen cameras specifically for tracking hand movements. Moreover, it furthered stated that the headset will have additional cameras for viewing the outside world.

In a typical Apple fashion, the VR headset will come with a custom-designed chip. The tech giant prefers to have a fully customized chip instead of a readymade one, unlike many other rivals, so I don’t think this news should surprise anyone.

So, the already robust-looking roster of Apple’s custom chips including W1 for AirPods, A14 Bionic for iPhone and iPad, and the newly-launched Apple M1 chip for Macs, will soon have a new member. The chip for Apple’s mixed reality headset will be incredibly fast (faster than M1) and more efficient than its rivals’ offerings.

Going by several reliable reports, Apple will launch a standalone App Store designed to offer content for gaming, video streaming, and video conferencing. Bloomberg describes it as an “all-encompassing 3-D digital environment” specifically created for gaming, watching a video, and communicating. Moreover, it will deeply integrate with Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade for a seamless gaming or media consumption experience.

Having already passed through many hurdles, Apple mixed reality headset is on track for release in 2022. A recent Bloomberg report, however, adds that the device may arrive sooner. The Cupertino giant is looking to unveil the headset at an in-person event later in 2021, says Mark Gurman. “It wants employees, the media, its partners, and developers in the room,” he adds.

That’s pretty much it! As the possible launch of Apple’s mixed reality (AR + VR) headset is still months away, a lot could change in the meantime. So we will keep on updating this rumor roundup to help you remain in the loop with more intriguing details about Apple’s headset. So, make sure to bookmark this post so that you can access it with ease.