So far, Apple hasn’t released information on its upcoming AR / VR headset, but leaks continue to crop up on the web – including a new one about a device that uses iris scanning to authenticate users’ identities.
This happens through information (opens in a new tab)which says that after scanning the eyes, users will be able to verify payments and log into different digital accounts (similar to Face ID or Touch ID on an iPhone).
Of course, entering a password in a virtual reality helmet is not particularly easy, so it makes sense to implement such a technology. It also means that different people will be able to use the same headset.
Tracking and materials
Incidentally, this isn’t the first time this particular rumor has surfaced – and it’s worth remembering that Apple acquired the eye-tracking company back in 2017.
Other highlights from the article: The headset will offer full-body tracking by pointing some of the cameras at your feet, and will be lighter than the recently introduced Meta Quest Pro, which tilts the weight at 722 grams.
Finally, the device is said to consist of a combination of fabric, aluminum and glass for a great experience – exactly what you would expect from Apple. Most rumors point to a 2023 release. No matter what Apple is building.
Analysis: what we know so far
Nothing is official yet – as you’d expect from Apple – but now it seems very likely that Apple is working on a headset that combines VR and augmented reality in one device (“mixed reality” is a term some people use in this case).
This device is believed to differ from Apple’s lighter glasses, which are reportedly focused on augmented reality. At this stage, it looks like this product is even further than it was in 2023, though it’s hard for sure.
We believe the device will be powered by an Apple chipset – possibly the M2 – and are said to have two 8K displays inside. It is said that at least a dozen cameras are attached to the headset to keep track of where you are in the room.
The projected cost of all of this is expected to be $ 3,000 / £ 2,685 / AU $ 4,835, and as we mentioned, it is slated to go live in 2023. You can expect the usual abundance of hype in the promotional material that Apple is putting up for the headset.