Mixed reality Archives - Gizmochina

Is AR/VR Dead? Not That Fast, This Technology Will Overtake Smartphones But When?

Oğuz Çakır — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 23:37:26 +0000

The world of technology is is evolving at an unprecedented pace. After a decade centered on smartphones, artificial intelligence and mixed reality have captured the spotlight. Moreover, we expect these two technologies to combine in the near future, and leading to even greater results than what Apple Vision Pro offers today. However, how does this expectation reflects to consumer behavior? Recent IDC research suggests a highly promising outlook for AR/VR headsets in 2024. Here are the details…

After 2023 Dip, AR/VR Headset Market Set for Explosive Growth

Despite the existence of AR/VR headsets for some time, the selection of mainstream products remains limited. Until recently, Meta’s Quest models dominated the field. However, 2023 signaled a shift with Apple’s announcement of its upcoming mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro. While this development promises to energize the industry, it appears to have temporarily dampened sales. In fact, global AR/VR headset sales declined by 23.5% in 2023. This drop is likely due to consumers holding off on purchases in anticipation of the Vision Pro’s release.

Of course it’s expected that expectations will change significantly in 2024. Following the increase in the number of people purchasing Apple Vision Pro and the mainstream adoption of this technology, it is anticipated that more people will turn to alternatives. IDC estimates that sales are expected to increase by 44.2%, reaching 9.7 million units this year. Moreover, this figure is expected to continue to grow exponentially in the coming years, potentially reaching 36 million units by the end of 2028.

Remember, this is nothing more than a prediction and focuses on the current dynamics of the market. In 2023, a staggering 1.2 billion smartphones were sold globally. This widespread adoption reflects the centrality of smartphones in our lives, from essential communication to financial transactions. If AR/VR technology experiences similar significant advancements in the coming years, achieving the transformative impact of smartphones, it’s plausible that sales figures could reach comparable levels.

RELATED:

(source)

The post Is AR/VR Dead? Not That Fast, This Technology Will Overtake Smartphones But When? appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple Vision Pro Launches with More Apps Than Windows Phone

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 21:09:04 +0000

Tomorrow, Apple will launch the Vision Pro in the United States. Even with pre-orders placed some time ago and 200,000 units already sold, the main concern is whether people will genuinely enjoy it. Luckily, Apple aims to live up to the high expectations for its $3,499 headset, with over 600 apps designed for the Vision Pro at its launch. Here are the details…

The Vision Pro Has Over 600 Apps Designed For It at Launch

Apple’s Vision Pro has impressed with its technical specs and capabilities. However, virtual and augmented reality often end up feeling like pricey toys rather than essential tools. After using a headset for a while, many people likely abandoned it, letting it collect dust. That’s because despite some success of Meta’s Quest series, the core problem remains. Headsets are still uncomfortable for prolonged use and lack adequate app support

During the launch, Apple addressed the initial concern of comfort and now demonstrated their solution for the second issue by confirming the headset’s compatibility with new apps. The company revealed that there are already more than 600 apps and games specifically designed for the Vision Pro, in addition to over a million compatible iOS and iPadOS apps. However, the quality of these apps remains uncertain at this point.

It’s noteworthy that even Microsoft faced challenges in expanding their application library for Windows Phone, making Apple’s achievement significant. The Vision Pro offers a diverse range of apps in the visionOS App Store, spanning sports, entertainment, productivity, gaming, and exploration. Highlights include PGA TOUR Vision, Vision Pro NBA, Max for unique shows, and popular productivity tools. The gaming selection features 250+ titles, including Apple Arcade exclusives. Users can explore the globe, check 3D weather, delve into the solar system, learn anatomy, DJ, attend virtual concerts, and shop with various apps. Unique experiences like Loóna, Void-X, and Saktrix Pro enhance the mixed reality environment. The app ecosystem is expected to grow as more users discover its capabilities.

Apple Vision Pro’s Massive Retail Box Revealed! What’s in the Box?

Oğuz Çakır — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:18:28 +0000

Excitement is building for Vision Pro. The mixed reality headset, currently in the pre-order phase and will be available in Apple stores in the U.S. on February 2nd. While we haven’t seen it in person, leaks and statements are revealing new details about the product. Recently, it was mentioned that the headset will be heavier than expected. Now, a massive retail box has emerged, likely accompanying the Apple Vision Pro, hinting at significant features. Here are the details…

Apple Vision Pro Massive Retail Box Revealed

Apple recently unveiled the box for their much-anticipated mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, in a training video for Apple employees. The box, while notably large, adheres to Apple’s signature minimalist design. It showcases the front face of the Vision Pro headset at the top, accompanied by the gray text “Vision Pro” along the long edges. Upon opening the box, you’ll find the headset, two adjustable headbands in different sizes, and a soft fabric light-blocking face mask.

Render of the Apple Vision Pro box based on official materials.

The Vision Pro box appears to be crafted with the device’s contents and delicate structure in mind. Apple has a history of unveiling their advanced products in sizable boxes. Nevertheless, they later shifted towards sustainability, adopting a more minimalist approach to reduce carbon footprint by downsizing the packaging.

While the box’s design might not be thrilling, Vision Pro’s innovative features have captured users’ attention. For example, Apple Vision Pro is in high demand in China, leading to notably increased prices in the grey market. It’s important to mention that the product is priced at $3,500. We’ll soon find out if it lives up to these expectations. If you’re wondering how to pre-order, you can read our article by clicking here.

Skyworth XR Showcases the MR PANCAKE 2 Mixed Reality Headset at CES 2024

Anubhav — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 17:41:05 +0000

Skyworth XR recently unveiled its latest offering at CES 2024, the MR PANCAKE 2, a device set to rival Apple’s Vision Pro. Notably, it’s the first single-eye 4K MR (Mixed Reality) product from China and globally, aside from Vision Pro. The MR PANCAKE 2 distinguishes itself with a Micro-OLED screen. Unlike the LCD screens common in current VR/MR gadgets, this one promises better color contrast, a broader range of colors, and quicker response times. With a single-eye resolution of 4K, and a combined 8K for both eyes, it offers an incredibly sharp and vibrant visual experience. This level of detail is not just a technical achievement; it’s about bringing the virtual world to life with unprecedented clarity.

The device is launched as a direct rival to the Apple’s Flagship Vision Pro

Interactivity is another area where the MR PANCAKE 2 shines. It moves beyond traditional controllers, embracing gesture recognition, eye tracking, and voice input. This means users can navigate virtual environments or interact with digital content simply by moving their hands, looking around, or speaking. This natural way of interacting could transform how we play games, watch movies, or even carry out work tasks, making them more intuitive and immersive.

Skyworth XR also launched its first AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, the A1, at CES. These glasses are a powerhouse of technology, boasting a 1080P Micro-OLED screen, high resolution, and a fast refresh rate. They promise to create a 172-inch screen-like experience six meters away. Plus, they’re designed to be inclusive, with support for external lenses and adjustments for varying degrees of myopia.

Both the MR PANCAKE 2 and the A1 glasses are more than just new gadgets. They represent a leap forward in how we interact with technology, blending the digital and physical worlds in ways that were once the realm of science fiction. As these devices become part of our daily lives, they could redefine entertainment, work, and social interaction, blurring the lines between what’s real and what’s virtual.

Read more about Gizmochina’s coverage of CES 2024 here.

RELATED:

(Via)

The post Skyworth XR Showcases the MR PANCAKE 2 Mixed Reality Headset at CES 2024 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple Vision Pro to be Released in March 2024, But Won’t Be Available Globally Until 2025

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:58:00 +0000

Apple introduced its mixed reality headset named Apple Vision Pro at an event last June. Unlike the company’s other products, the device did not immediately go on sale after the event. Instead, Apple announced that the headset, which combines virtual and augmented reality, would be available for purchase in 2024. Now, the exact release date has been revealed. Here are the details…

Apple Vision Pro to be Released in March 2024

If you’re a tech enthusiast and a dedicated follower of TechHere, you’ve likely heard the name Mark Gurman. Gurman, especially knowledgeable about Apple, frequently reveals details about the company’s products that others may not know. Now, he has come forward with a claim about Apple Vision Pro. According to him, the much-anticipated mixed reality headset will first be available for purchase in the United States in March 2024.

However, this was not Apple’s original plan. The company intended to release the product in January. Unfortunately, some issues in the supply chain and longer-than-expected testing disrupted these plans. As a result, the release of Apple Vision Pro was delayed by two months. So, when will the mixed reality headset be available for purchase in rest of the World?

According to Gurman’s research, the device will be available for purchase in Canada and the United Kingdom by the end of 2024. Unfortunately, its release in the rest of the world will extend until the last months of 2025. Of course, queues for the $3,500 Apple product may not form in many countries. Still, such limited availability may not be well-received by users.

However, waiting until 2025 may not be as bad as it sounds. It is already known that Apple is working on a kind of affordable Vision Pro model. This model is expected to be released no later than the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026. This way, users can have a product with very similar features at a much lower cost.

RELATED:

(via)

The post Apple Vision Pro to be Released in March 2024, But Won’t Be Available Globally Until 2025 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Huawei may take on Apple Vision Pro with its own Mixed Reality headset

Sean — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:00:47 +0000

Huawei is apparently working on its own mixed reality headset that will take on the Apple Vision Pro. Similar to Apple’s Vision Pro, the upcoming MR headset from Huawei is also a high end wearable model. So here are all the details.

Huawei working on a premium Mixed Reality headset

The Chinese tech giant is rumored to be developing an MR headset that will be equipped with a flagship grade chipset. The high end processor would help in offering a more immersive and seamless experience. This wearable device is expected to address a major concern of such products, which is thermal dissipation. Huawei could offer its MR headset with a robust cooling mechanism.

According to a tipster on X, the Huawei MR headset will feature an external battery module, which is similar to the Vision Pro. However, the leak does not reveal any other finer details regarding this device. Interestingly enough, Huawei’s former subsidiary, Honor, is possibly working on a mixed reality headset of its own. This indicates that Chinese brands are planning to expand to premium wearables soon to better compete against Apple.

It is worth noting that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now. The launch date, specs, and features are still at large as well. But since these could be designed to rival the Apple Vision Pro, Huawei’s MR headset could be more competitively priced. So you won’t be spending around 3,500 US Dollars on these models.

US Army to Equip Soldiers with Mixed Reality Goggles for War

Oğuz Çakır — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 00:38:26 +0000

The popularity of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies is growing every day. This is leading to new perspectives and applications. However, one of the most interesting applications is the use of this technology by the United States Army. The Army has been using this technology to train soldiers for a long time. Most recently, it was announced that the Army is awarding Microsoft with another order of advanced mixed reality goggles designed for combat situations. Here are the details…

The Future of Warfare: Microsoft Mixed Reality Goggles and the US Army

Actually, Microsoft’s agreement with the US Army is not surprising. Especially if we include artificial intelligence. The company has signed many agreements worth billions of dollars with the Ministry of Defense so far. Now, the US Army has awarded Microsoft with another order of advanced mixed reality goggles designed for combat situations.

The new order is worth $125 million and will be used to further develop the Integrated Visual Augmentation System, which is a mixed reality headset that provides soldiers with enhanced situational awareness. The IVAS headset is based on Microsoft’s HoloLens technology and features a number of features that are designed to improve the safety and effectiveness of soldiers in combat.

These features include: A heads-up display that can project information such as maps, enemy positions, and friendly forces directly onto the soldier’s field of view. A thermal imaging camera that can be used to see in low-light conditions. A laser rangefinder that can be used to measure distances to targets. A communication system that allows soldiers to stay in touch with each other and with command headquarters.

The IVAS headset has been in development for several years and has undergone extensive testing by the US Army. In August 2023, the Army awarded Microsoft with a $40 million contract to improve the design of the headset and address some of the issues that had been raised by soldiers during testing. The new order from the Army will allow Microsoft to continue development of the IVAS headset and bring it closer to deployment. The Army plans to begin fielding the IVAS headset to soldiers in 2025.

RELATED:

(via)

The post US Army to Equip Soldiers with Mixed Reality Goggles for War appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple to reportedly not include overhead strap for Vision Pro in the box

Jeet — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 01:22:48 +0000

At WWDC earlier this month, Apple finally unveiled its highly anticipated mixed-reality headset, dubbed Apple Vision Pro. There have been a lot of talks about this new device from the company, given that it marks Apple’s foray into new technology.

While most of the talks revolve around technology, some discuss the accessories related to the device. The device comes with a stretchable 3D knitted fabric headband that goes around the user’s head behind their ears. But there’s another strap that the company hasn’t talked about yet.

An additional overhead strap is most likely to help balance the headset and keep it from getting easily dislodged when the user is in motion. It appeared briefly during the WWDC keynote in one of the promotional materials, but the company hasn’t talked about it.

The Cupertino-based technology giant has not yet revealed the weight of the Vision Pro, but the device is expected to be quite heavy, especially since Apple decided to offload the battery to an external pack. In this case, the additional strap over the head could dramatically balance the device’s weight and offer a better experience while using it.

Since the company has not talked about this additional strap and has not mentioned it in the marketing materials, it’s likely that Apple plans to sell it as an additional accessory and not include it in the retail box of the device. To know for sure, we will have to wait for an announcement of confirmation from Apple.

Will Mixed Reality Replace Smartphones? Apple and the Anti-Apple Group Battle for Supremacy

Oğuz Çakır — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:16:17 +0000

Apple is a successful company in both commercial and technological terms. They have a knack for setting trends, even with technologies that have been around for a while. Virtual reality and augmented reality are two examples of this. While the “Metaverse” hype has been overblown, AR and VR have never been more popular than they are right now, thanks in part to Apple’s upcoming Visual Pro headset. In response to this potential threat, some manufacturers are preparing to try to counter Apple’s influence. Here are the details…

The Mixed Reality Market Heats Up as Apple and Android Square Off

Apple announced its new mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, at WWDC 2023. The headset has impressive features, but it won’t be released until early 2024. This has disappointed some people, but it has also opened a window of opportunity for others. Apple’s rivals are also working on mixed reality headsets.

The Android group, on the other hand, is developing a range of MR products at different price points. Samsung is reportedly working on a pair of MR glasses that will be priced around $300. Google is also developing an mixed reality operating system (OS) and chipsets for MR devices. Qualcomm is providing its Snapdragon XR2 chipset for MR headsets from other companies, such as Magicleap.

Industry insiders are expecting a confrontation between Apple and the Android group in the mixed reality market, just like the current smartphone race. Counterpoint Research expects global MR-XR headset shipments to grow from 18 million units in 2022 to 110 million in 2025 and 1 billion in 2030. But for this we have no choice but to wait

RELATED:

(via)

The post Will Mixed Reality Replace Smartphones? Apple and the Anti-Apple Group Battle for Supremacy appeared first on Gizmochina.

Oppo unveils MR Glass Developer Edition in collaboration with Qualcomm

Soumyakanti — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:48:20 +0000

Oppo has unveiled its latest mixed reality headset, the Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition, at the 2023 Augmented World Expo (AWE) held in California. This headset specifically targets developers, allowing them to explore and create customized applications while harnessing the potential of XR (extended reality) technology.

Designed for Developers: Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition Encourages Custom Application Creation

The introduction of the Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition signifies Oppo’s belief that mixed reality headsets will serve as the next generation of computing platforms, surpassing the current dominance of smartphones. Oppo has been investing in AR glasses for several years and previously released the Oppo Air Glass 2, a model resembling regular eyeglasses. The new model, developed in collaboration with Qualcomm, utilizes the Snapdragon XR2 Plus platform and incorporates features such as proprietary SUPERVOOC fast charging technology and heart rate monitoring.

Constructed from skin-friendly materials, the Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition boasts an innovative “through” view of reality achieved by utilizing two color cameras, known as Binocular VPT (Video Pass Through). The headset also incorporates compact “pancake” lenses and supports a refresh rate of 120Hz. Notably, the developer edition is slightly bulkier than ordinary glasses and includes “ring” controllers reminiscent of Meta’s offerings.

Despite the immense potential, Oppo acknowledges that mixed reality technology has a long way to go before achieving widespread adoption. While the company has no immediate plans for commercializing the technology, Oppo anticipates that users will eventually wear MR headsets throughout the day, akin to smartphones.

The company aims to attract developers to create applications that can popularize mixed reality technology. Oppo envisions a future where MR headsets become as popular as smartphones, comparable in terms of market size. Several other tech giants, including Microsoft, Samsung, Xiaomi, and rumored Apple, are actively developing their own mixed reality devices, signaling a growing interest in this field. According to recent reports, Apple is all set to introduce its first mixed-reality headset dubbed as Apple Reality Pro on June 5th.

The Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition Developer Headset will be distributed in the second half of 2023 as part of the Snapdragon Spaces project through EnlightXR in China.

Apple’s Reality Pro headset may encounter production hurdles

Soumyakanti — Sat, 13 May 2023 13:20:00 +0000

Apple’s highly anticipated mixed-reality headset, the Reality Pro, is generating excitement among fans as the company prepares for its annual developer conference WWDC 2023. However, according to recent reports from The Wall Street Journal, Apple is facing production challenges that may impact the launch and availability of the device.

Credit: Ahmed Chenni, Freelancer.com

Reality Pro: A revolutionary leap into mixed reality amidst potential production challenges

Despite being in development for seven years, Apple is reportedly experiencing difficulties bringing the Reality Pro headset to market. The supply chain sources cited in the WSJ article suggest that most consumers may not be able to purchase the headset until the fall, marking a significant delay compared to Apple’s usual product release timeline.

This change in approach is unusual for Apple, which typically refrains from discussing new products until they are ready for shipment. However, with years of investment in development and a determination to move forward, Apple CEO Tim Cook is pushing for a release, even if it means compromising on perfection.

While Apple is striving to expedite the launch, some internal concerns have been raised regarding software integration, production challenges, and market readiness. These concerns have led to questions about potential delays in the rollout.

The report also confirms previous rumors that the Reality Pro headset will be accompanied by a separate battery pack, which is expected to be compact in size. This is a departure from Apple’s usual approach of integrating components seamlessly within their devices.

Due to manufacturing delays, mass production of the Reality Pro headset is projected to commence in September, with estimated shipments of 200,000 to 300,000 units for this year, as predicted by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Although these numbers are significantly lower than initial expectations, reports indicate that the headset will come with a hefty price tag of $3,000 at launch.

RELATED:

(Source)

The post Apple’s Reality Pro headset may encounter production hurdles appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple’s Mixed Reality Headset Goes Wireless: “Power Banks” to the Rescue

Oğuz Çakır — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 21:42:24 +0000

Apple is preparing to revolutionize the virtual reality world. We’re sure you’ve read many similar sentences in the past year. The truth is, yes, Apple is indeed working on a headset with both AR and VR capabilities (mixed reality). If rumors are correct, the company will showcase this product for the first time at WWDC 23. Both the hardware and software of this highly anticipated product have been the subject of discussion, and as the launch is just weeks away, new information is beginning to emerge. It seems that Apple’s big solution to the energy problem is to develop power banks that only last a few hours. Here are the details…

Apple Mixed Reality Headset to Use MagSafe Batteries

According to Mark Gurman, Apple’s mixed reality headset will not require a direct connection to a power outlet. Instead, users will be able to connect a magnetic battery with MagSafe technology to the headset using a cable. The connector will apparently be magnetic, but it will be firmly attached so it doesn’t fall out while in motion. This way, you won’t face issues, especially in scenarios that require a lot of movement.

Looking at the positive side, not being tethered to a power outlet is great. Especially if you need to travel with an MR headset or use it outdoors (for reasons unknown), you’ll have the desired mobility. Additionally, you’ll experience a much freer experience without the weight of a cable leaning to one side. Also, not having the battery directly on the headset will prevent problems with weight and balance. However, this doesn’t mean everything will be seamless.

Again, according to Gurman’s claim, the battery lasts for nearly two hours under heavy use. Although users will have the option to continually replace the battery, the short battery life could cause issues. Still, two hours is quite ideal for spending time with such a product, especially considering many people experience problems like nausea after only ten minutes in VR. Nevertheless, we have no choice but to wait for WWDC 23 to see the accuracy of these claims and the validity of our comments.

RELATED:

(via)

The post Apple’s Mixed Reality Headset Goes Wireless: “Power Banks” to the Rescue appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple Mixed Reality headset to reportedly feature a magnetic power source

Jeet — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:58:44 +0000

Apple has been working on a mixed-reality headset for some time now, and the company seems to be all set to officially launch the device in the coming months.

Now that the device is expected to debut at WWDC, details about the product are now surfacing online. In the latest development, it is being claimed that the headset will have a magnetic cable for charging.

The report coming from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg in the Power On newsletter says that the upcoming product, which may be named Reality Pro or Reality One, will have two ports — USB-C for data transfers and a new proprietary connector for charging.

The power source, which we expect to be similar to MagSafe, will have a round tip that magnetically attaches to Apple’s headset and after inserting the cable, it can be rotated to lock it into place.

Recently, it was reported that Apple’s mixed reality headset will have an external power supply as the company is concerned about the heating issue which may impact the comfort while wearing the device.

The power supply is about the size of the iPhone and can reportedly offer a battery life of up to two hours on a single charge. While not much is confirmed yet, the device is expected to be priced at around $3,000 when it launches in a few months.

RELATED:

Source

The post Apple Mixed Reality headset to reportedly feature a magnetic power source appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple Mixed Reality Headset May Work Seamlessly with iPhones

Sean — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 08:26:42 +0000

It is already known that Apple is working on a brand new product line in the wearable category for a while now. This new mixed reality based headset is expected to be officially revealed soon. However, prior to its announcement, a new patent have hinted at some of its functionality.

Based on a patent filed in Europe, the upcoming “Multi-Device Continuity for use with Extended Reality (XR) Systems.” In other words, the AR/VR headset will come with support for Continuity features like Handoff or Universal Control that are already available on existing gadgets. For those unaware, Continuity is basically the term the Cupertino based giant uses to imply that its products are supported by multiple platforms and can seamlessly communicate with one another.

So we can expect the new XR headset (Extended Reality) to feature Continuity for seamless connection between your Apple products as long as you’re signed into the same Apple ID on all of your devices. The connection will be enabled through wireless communication tech like WiFi and Bluetooth. Interestingly, the patent also offered us an example on how such a technology would work. A user can be wearing the headset and go through an email that was received by the iPhone.

Meaning, a simple hand gesture will let you view the email on the larger virtual display. This basically adds to the over functionality of the headset. Continuity is quite a popular feature under Apple with its macOS based PCs and iPhones being capable of communicating with one another. This basically makes the users’ life a lot more convenient and is typically added on most of the brand’s products.

RELATED:

(Via, Source)

The post Apple Mixed Reality Headset May Work Seamlessly with iPhones appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple to Announce Mixed Reality Headset Later This Year During WWDC

Sean — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 08:44:43 +0000

Apple might finally have a set launch date for its highly anticipated mixed reality headset. The upcoming device also marks the company entering a new category of products. Now, a new report has revealed when we can expect the headset to drop.

According to sources close to the matter, the Cupertino based giant will be officially showcasing its AR/VR based headset later this year, during its WWDC event. This is a major conference from the iPhone maker that is typically held in the middle of the year, so we can expect an announcement sometime in June 2023. As per previous reports, the device in question could be called the Reality Pro.

Initial rumors had hinted at an earlier launch, however, the brand faced various challenges in regards to software and hardware. Because of this, it had to postpone the launch. The headset will likely arrive with a hefty price tag that could go as high as 3,000 US Dollars. Although, finer details regarding its specs and features are still unclear. But for this price, we can expect Apple to offer new features and functions that have not been seen in AR or VR based headsets so far.

Based on our older reports, the company could offer dual 4K displays and an array of cameras to help in advanced tracking and controller free input. This device will also be powered by the capable M2 processor that will easily outclass any other chipset for headset devices in terms of raw power. The platform will also run on the new xrOS software as well. So stick around for more updates regarding this matter.

Apple and Disney Collaborate on Virtual Reality Content for Upcoming Mixed Reality Headset

Oğuz Çakır — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 08:25:25 +0000

Apple is making a big move in the world of virtual and mixed reality with the reported development of a new headset. The company is said to be collaborating with several media partners, including Disney, as well as Sony Group to develop content for its MR headset. Here are the details…

Apple in talks with Disney, others on VR content for new headset

Apple is reportedly in talks with several media partners, including The Walt Disney Company, to develop virtual reality (VR) content for a mixed reality (MR) headset. According to the latest reports, the headset was developed in partnership with Sony Group and will feature two ultra-high-resolution displays External cameras for VR and a range of pass-through modes for augmented reality.

Apple is also said to be updating its own Apple TV+ material to work with the headphones. The news comes after Bloomberg reported earlier this month that Apple plans to launch its first MR headset this year. MR headsets allow wearers to use real-world objects to elicit a response in the virtual world. The iPhone maker’s MR headset is expected to launch at this year’s spring event and will reportedly cost around $3,000.

That’s double the price of the $1,500 Quest Pro virtual and MR headset Meta Platforms Inc launched last year. It should be noted that neither Disney, Apple nor Sony commented on the report. However, the news highlights Apple’s continued interest in the VR and AR space, which could open up new opportunities for media partners and content creators to engage with users in new and innovative ways method.

With Apple’s reputation for technological innovation and design, it will be interesting to see what the company brings to its mixed reality headsets.

RELATED:

(via)

The post Apple and Disney Collaborate on Virtual Reality Content for Upcoming Mixed Reality Headset appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple Mixed Reality Headset might be delayed until late 2023: Kuo

Sean — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 11:22:06 +0000

Apple has long been rumored to be working on a mixed reality headset that it is expected to announce sometime next year. However, a new report has suggested that the company’s upcoming wearable product might see a delayed launch in the market.

The news arrives from known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who claimed that the Cupertino based giant’s AR/VR based headset might be delayed due to unclear “software related issues.” Furthermore, these issues will cause the company to launch the new headset sometime in the second half of next year. Although it is still possible that the brand announces the product earlier in the year, while its actual release will begin in late 2023. For those unaware, Apple usually hosts its WWDC event in June, so we can expect the company to reveal this headset along with an SDK for developers for AR/VR apps for this device during this conference.

The analyst had previously stated that the company will unveil its headset during a media event in January 2023. It will then reportedly begin mass shipments in the second quarter of 2023. But Kuo is unsure whether the delay would lead to the January announcement also being pushed back while also stating that an overly lengthy period between a media event and mass shipments can impact sales. In simpler terms, the longer the delay of shipments after announcements, the sales might be affected. The mixed reality headset is expected to be an expensive product, so Kuo projects that the company will ship around 500,000 headsets in 2023.

Apple AR/VR Headset Could Be Delayed Due To Software-Related Issues: Ming-Chi Kuo

Jeet — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 04:02:09 +0000

Apple’s Mixed Reality headset, which has been in the news for the past few months as the upcoming AR/VR device from the technology giant, may get delayed due to software-related issues, reports Ming-Chi Kuo.

According to the report, the long-rumored Apple AR/VR headset is having unspecified software-related issues, which could delay the mass shipments of the device to the second half of next year, i.e. 2023.

Apple AR/VR Device Concept Design Render

Kuo says that the mass shipments for the components of the device are likely to start somewhere in the first half of 2023, but the shipment of the fully assembled device may not begin until the second half of the year, resulting in a delayed launch even if Apple announces the device earlier in the year.

Earlier, Kuo had claimed that the AR/VR device or the Mixed Reality headset from Apple could be announced at a January media event, with mass shipments beginning in the second quarter of the year. It is not yet known whether the delay in shipments would result in a pushback for the announcement of the device.

If the device isn’t announced in early 2023, then the WWDC 2023, somewhere around the month of June should be a good opportunity for the Cupertino-based tech giant to unveil the new device and open up its Software Development Kit (SDK) for developers to create AR/VR applications of the device.

Ming-Chi Kuo also expects the upcoming product from Apple to be on the expensive side when it comes to pricing. He forecasts that because of the pricing, the company will ship less than 500,000 units in the year 2023. We’ll have to wait for a few more weeks or months to know the features and pricing of the device.

Apple Mixed Reality Headset might feature an M2 chip: Report

Sean — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 10:34:25 +0000

Apple has long been rumored to be working on a new product line, which will enables its customers to access Augmented and Virtual realities. Now, a new report has revealed information regarding the engine that powers this mixed reality headset.

The news arrives from Mark Gurman who shared the information on his Power On newsletter (Via Engadget). In the report, Bloomberg’s Gurman stated that the Cupertino based giant’s upcoming mixed reality headset (AR/VR enabled) will feature the newly unveiled M2 chipset. For those unaware, this chip is the latest addition into the Apple Silicon series, and is the successor to the M1 chips.

Additionally, the new M2 chip in the headset will also be paired with up to 16GB of RAM. Mark Gurman also talked about how the iPhone maker plans on launching a number of new products like a new HomePod speaker as well in the newsletter. Based on our previous report, the mixed reality headset from the company may feature two processors. As per known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the chips will offer performance similar to the last gen M1 chip, while the other is a lower end chip designed to handle data from various sensors.

The mixed reality headset from Apple has been rumored to launch for a while now. The company has already obtained trademark for the RealityOS, with developers also finding references to this new OS in App Store upload logs as well. Unfortunately, it is still unknown when exactly the product will be released in the market. So stick around for more updates.

Apple AR Glass mixed reality headset reportedly enters design development stage

Jeet — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 06:20:21 +0000

Apple has reportedly been working on a new device named the AR Glass which is a mixed reality headset, expected to go official sometime in the year 2024, although some reports indicate its launch either next year or in 2024.

Now, a new report from analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong Intl Tech Research (via 9to5Mac) claims that the upcoming AR Glass headset has now entered the design development stage.

He also claims that the AR Glass product would be coming in the second half of 2024. The report further adds that Luxshare would remain one of Apple’s main suppliers for devices to come between late 2022 and 2024.

As for the development of the AR Glass, he adds that the product has now entered the design development stage in which the prototype will be ready by the end of this year while the mass production will start in the second half of 2024.

Apart from this AR/VR product, the Cupertino-based technology company is expected to announce a similar product later this year or early next year which is 100% focused on the augmented reality (AR) technology.

If the reports are to be believed, then the mixed reality headset from Apple will focus on media content, gaming, and communication. It could be powered by the Apple Silicon M-series chip and offer a high-resolution displays, along with several sensors and cameras.

Apple to announce Mixed Reality headset in an event in January: Kuo

Sean — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 11:08:26 +0000

While Apple was initially believed to unveil its mixed reality headset during WWDC 2022 event, new reports hinted at the AR/VR based headset announcement being delayed. Now, a new report has hinted that the headset will be revealed in a special event at the start of next year.

(2/2)
1. EVT starting from 3Q22.
2. Media event on Jan 2023.
3. Delivery of development toolkit within 2-4 weeks after the event.
4. Starting pre-order in 2Q23.
5. Hitting store shelves before WWDC 2023.

— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) June 7, 2022

The news arrives from known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who shared the information on Twitter. Kuo stated that the Cupertino based giant will finally be unveiling this highly anticipated product during a dedicated event sometime in January 2023. The analyst further added that the iPhone maker will be revealing the product along with new tools for the developers, which will be shipped within “2 to 4 weeks” after the event.

Notably, Kuo claims that pre orders for the upcoming mixed reality will begin in the second quarter of next year. Furthermore, the customers will be able to buy the headset before the WWDC event in 2023. Previous reports have already talked about the development issues that the new product has faced, which has led to delays. This gadget will be a pricey product that will cost somewhere around a whopping 3,000 US Dollars. The mixed reality part of it means that it will be able to run both Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality based applications.

Microsoft and Qualcomm partners to develop chips for AR glasses

Jeet — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 07:08:06 +0000

Technology giant Microsoft and chipset leader Qualcomm have worked together for custom chips for Windows PC and now, during Qualcomm’s keynote at CES 2022, it has been announced that both the companies will be collaborating again for AR chips.

Qualcomm and Microsoft together will develop a new, customized version of Snapdragon chipset for augmented reality and the same will be powering the future AR glasses coming from Microsoft.

Cristiano Amon, Chief Executive Officer at Qualcomm, said: “We’re announcing that we’re developing a custom augmented reality Snapdragon chip for next-generation, power-efficient, very lightweight AR glasses for the Microsoft ecosystem.”

He further added that the company is integrating into the chip platform software from both companies: the Microsoft Mesh platform, and the recently announced Qualcomm Snapdragon Spaces XR development platform. The Snapdragon Spaces will be fully integrated into Microsoft Mesh and will be available for next-generation glasses.

Earlier, Microsoft partnered with Qualcomm to develop custom SQ1 and SQ2 chips for its ARM-based Surface Pro X devices. The Microsoft HoloLens 2 is also powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. So, the development of both these brands partnering for new chips isn’t surprising.

For those who are unaware, Microsoft Mesh is the company’s mixed-reality platform powered by Azure and is meant to create a sense of shared presence on a variety of devices. Recently, the company announced its plans to bring Mesh to its Teams group collaboration platform.

Acer OJO 500 Windows Mixed Reality Headset announced

Habeeb Onawole — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 13:06:39 +0000

IFA Berlin doesn’t officially start until August 31 but manufacturers are already at the event and have begun announcing products. Acer is one of the early starters and has announced a new Mixed Reality headset called the Acer OJO (pronounced as oho) 500.

The Acer OJO 500 is the first Mixed Reality headset and VR headset with a detachable design. Unlike other headsets, the OJO 500’s lens and head strap can be separated. This makes it easy to clean and comes in handy where one has to share it with multiple users. You also don’t have to completely remove the headset if you need to answer your phone or pause whatever you are doing to interact with the real world as the front can simply be raised up.

The headset has two types of head straps. There is a soft one that can be washed (limited number of times) and a hard one that is extra-padded. Irrespective of the one you get, the headset should fit comfortably.

To adjust the distance between the pupils and the screen, there is a wheel for doing that. There is also a special app, Acer IPD Meter, which works with the Acer IPD Indicator software to allow for greater control when adjusting the interpupillary distance (IPD).

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PDxDbnbnaE[/embedyt]

The Acer OJO 500 has two 2.89” LCD displays with a 2880 x 1440 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Unlike Acer’s other MR headset, this one has a deep blue color.

It connects to a Mixed Reality PC via HDMI 2.0 while data is transmitted via USB 3.0. Acer says once it is connected, it downloads the required software and can be ready to use in just 10 minutes. There are two cameras in front for 6DoF so you can move in all directions, pitch, roll, and yaw. A 13ft HDMI cable is bundled with the headset to allow movement within a wider range. For audio, there are sound pipes for spatial audio or you can use the built-in headphones with the hard strap.

If you already own a Mixed Reality headset, you do not need to get the motion controllers but you may want to purchase the Windows 10 button touchpad or the grab button for interacting with digital objects.

Price and Availability

The Acer OJO 500 will have a starting price of $399 in North America and €499 in Europe. It will go on sale in November. Acer will allow for logo customization for companies and businesses but there is a minimum number of headsets to be purchased to get the feature.

(Source)

The post Acer OJO 500 Windows Mixed Reality Headset announced appeared first on Gizmochina.

ASUS Joins The Mixed Reality Game With Its Own $429 Headset

Habeeb Onawole — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 08:59:06 +0000

Taiwan’s ASUS is the latest to join the Windows mixed reality (MR) train. The manufacturer has announced its own headset called the ASUS HC102 with a $429 price tag.

The ASUS HC102 has roughly the same specs we have seen on other MR headsets. It has dual 2.89” LCD displays, each with a 1440 x 1440 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Its field of view is stated as 95°.

There is inside-out tracking thanks to the two front facing cameras with six degrees of freedom (6DoF) and the 32 LED lights on each of the controllers. It also has a proximity sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer. For connectivity, there is a HDMI 2.0 port, a USB 3.0 port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

In terms of design, the ASUS HC102 is still the best looking MR headset in the market. Unlike the boring white design of the Dell Visor or the blue coat of Acer’s headset, its front has a polygonal design that makes it stand out.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwxloWy2wTo[/embedyt]

ASUS has also made it possible to flip the headset without removing it completely just in case you want to take a brief look at the real world.

Selling price for the ASUS headset is $429 and it is available for pre-order on B&H. It is not the most expensive if you compare it to the price of the other MR headsets on the Microsoft store. But it is the most expensive when you realize you can get the others for less on Amazon. The online shopping giant has a sale on MR headsets currently.

The $449 HP headset can be purchased for just $225. The Acer headset and Lenovo Explorer which are both priced at $399 are available for $278 and $279 respectively. Dell’s $449 Visor is on sale for just $254. Only Samsung’s Hmd Odyssey remains at $399.

[envira-gallery id=”174663″]

(Via)

The post ASUS Joins The Mixed Reality Game With Its Own $429 Headset appeared first on Gizmochina.

Samsung HMD Odyssey Mixed Reality Headset Launched for $499

Habeeb Onawole — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 19:05:33 +0000

Microsoft announced the Samsung HMD Odyssey Mixed Reality headset at an event in San Francisco today. Images of the headset leaked about a week ago and today it is now official and available for pre-order.

The Samsung HMD Odyssey joins the already announced MR headsets like the Lenovo Explorer, the Dell Visor, Acer MR headset, and the HP Windows MR headset.

The Odyssey is different from the other four headsets in multiple ways. It has two OLED displays each with a resolution of 2880 x 1660 compared to the LCD displays of the others (1440 x 1440). It also has a 110° FOV which is more than the 105° FOV of the other headsets.

Another main difference is that the Samsung HMD Odyssey comes with built-in AKG headphones for spatial audio and a dual microphone array. The other headsets require you to plug in headphones and a microphone through the 3.5mm jack. However, refresh rate is 90Hz on all headsets.

The additional features of the Samsung HMD Odyssey makes it the most expensive of them all with a price tag of $499. The Dell Visor and the HP MR headset are priced at $449, while the Acer and Lenovo Explorer will sell for $399.

All the headsets come with the same motion controllers. Pre-orders have started but it won’t be available until November 6. The other MR headsets can also be pre-ordered now and they will be available on October 17.

Microsoft also announced that it has acquired AltspaceVR, a pioneer in immersive communications best known for organizing social VR events such as concerts, meetups, and comedy shows.

Microsoft says its working with Valve to make sure their catalog of SteamVR content will work on its MR headsets. Beginning today, developers will get access to the Windows MR SteamVR preview. The general public will have to wait till the holidays for access.

(Source)

The post Samsung HMD Odyssey Mixed Reality Headset Launched for $499 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Hi-Res Images of Samsung’s Mixed Reality Headset Leaks

Habeeb Onawole — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 11:36:25 +0000

While other companies are into Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR), Microsoft is focused on Mixed Reality (MR) – a blend of both or to better put it, blending the physical and virtual worlds. Hardware for mixed reality is categorized into two – immersive and holographic. Samsung’s mixed reality headset which just leaked belongs to the immersive category while the Microsoft Hololens is an example of the latter.

Samsung isn’t the only manufacturer with a mixed reality headset. Lenovo, Dell, and ASUS have headsets that should go on sale before the end of the year. If you can’t wait for those, you can buy HP’s or Acer’s Mixed Reality developer edition headsets.

Samsung’s own headset is a bit different from the rest. Instead of an audio out jack, the headset has a pair of AKG headphones integrated into it. For those who don’t know, AKG Acoustics or rather its parent company, Harman International Industries is now owned by Samsung.

The headset is black and looks a bit like the PSVR headset. There are two cameras in front for tracking your environment and there is a wire for connecting to your PC. There is also an image that shows the headset alongside a pair of Microsoft’s motion controllers.

Microsoft has a Mixed Reality event on October 3, there is a chance the Samsung headset may be unveiled there. For now, our guess is that it may be priced around $399.

[envira-gallery id=”150884″]

(Source, via)

The post Hi-Res Images of Samsung’s Mixed Reality Headset Leaks appeared first on Gizmochina.

ODG R-8 & R-9 Are the First Snapdragon 835-based Mixed AR & VR Glasses

Jed John Ikoba — Wed, 04 Jan 2017 07:19:52 +0000

Although ODG isn’t a new player in the business of Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, the company is still not very familiar to many. The firm whose full name is Osterhout Design Group (ODG) has unvelied two of its latest reality smartglasses at CES 2017 and they are both capable of AR and Vr functionalities at the same time. The smartglasses are named R-8 and R-9 and what’s unique about them is that they are the first wearables powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 835 flagship chip and they are more sophisticated than ODG’s earlier offerings raanging from the R-7, R-6 downwards.

The ODG R-8 and R-9 fuses both Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality features, capable of delivering both AR and VR. The R-9, however, packs a more sophisticated features and consequently has a higher price tag slammed on it.

While the ODG R-9 has a 50-degree field-of-view, the R- has a 40-degree field-of-view (FOV). They also differ in resoluton as the R-9 has a higher FHD (1080 pixels) resolution, while the R-8 has an HD (720 pixels) resolution. The R-9 also functions as a platform that can be sed to develop mobile AR and VR apps, as well as Smartglass apps.

Fusing the latest Snapdragon 835 chip inside the wearable improves the user experience more than ever, as the SD 835 is said to reduce the lag between motion tracking and what you see on screen, lowering the chances of triggering motion sickness. It also improves positional audio for more realistic experiences. These features places the new Smartglasses ahead of their R-7 predecessor.

Despite the much-improved features, the ODG R-8 and R-9 carry a far cheaper price tag that the $2,750 price tag of the R-7. The ODG R-9 is billed to ship in Q2 2017 with a price tag of around $1799. The R-8, on the other hand, will be available sometime in the second half of the year and will cost les than $1,000.

The post ODG R-8 & R-9 Are the First Snapdragon 835-based Mixed AR & VR Glasses appeared first on Gizmochina.