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New report hints at the potential power of Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset

By Aiko Tanaka
1 min read
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In this article (5)

Apple’s first genuinely new product in a while is expected to see the light of day in the second half of 2022, and it is the alleged AR/VR headset. The rumor mill has been spilling out all kinds of reports and rumors about the device, one of which reveals Apple’s intent for its implementation.

More recently, a new report from the well-known and respected tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo pulls the curtains yet even more. He claims that the headset will be powered by the same 96W USB-C power adapter that comes with the MacBook Pro.

At first glance, this piece of information might seem boring or even unworthy of being mentioned. However, it could be a showing sign of the power that stands behind Apple’s mixed reality wearable product. Previous rumors say that it will be rocking a Mac-level computing power, which would explain the big power adapter.

To be more precise, Kuo has stated that there will be two processors that will contribute to the headset’s capabilities: a 5nm chip and a 4nm one, supposedly manufactured by TSMC. He also says that one of the chips will be similar in performance to that of the M1 SoC, while the other will be responsible for all the sensors.

Needless to say, this first iteration will likely be a very niche product, going for insane amounts of money and reserved for the early adopters and developers. That is why Apple is said to make only a small number of them for 2022.

That being said, Kuo predicts that the next generation will enter the market with a more competitive price point and slowly become more affordable and available. Tim Cook, Apple’s current CEO, has expressed a tremendous interest in the technology. Significant amounts of investments are being made in both VR and AR, so both are probably here to stay and have some part to play in the future

Questions & Answers

Q.

When is Apple's AR/VR headset expected to be released?

A.

The new headset is anticipated to be released in the second half of 2022. It is described as Apple’s first genuinely new product in a while, marking a significant entry into the mixed reality market for the company.

Q.

What kind of processing power will the new AR/VR headset have?

A.

The headset is expected to have Mac-level computing power, featuring two processors: a 5nm chip and a 4nm chip, likely manufactured by TSMC. One chip's performance will be similar to the M1 SoC.

Q.

Why might the device be powered by a 96W USB-C adapter?

A.

The use of a 96W USB-C power adapter, similar to the MacBook Pro, indicates the significant power requirements of the headset. This suggests it will have high-end computing capabilities comparable to a Mac.

Q.

Who is the initial target market for the first version of the headset?

A.

The initial iteration of the headset will likely be a very niche product, intended for early adopters and developers due to its high price. Apple is expected to produce only a small number of units for 2022.

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