Apple’s standalone AR headset to launch late 2022

According to a research note from analyst Ming-chi Kuo seen by MacRumors and 9to5Mac, Apple’s first AR headset will be released in the fourth quarter of 2022. Kuo predicted back in March that the headset would be released sometime next year, and is now also providing more technical information on the device.

The headset will have two processors, according to Kuo, one with “the same level of computing power as M1” and one lower-end chip to handle input from the various sensors. For example, Kuo says that the headset has “at least 6-8 optical modules to simultaneously provide continuous video see-through AR services.” The headset is also said to have two 4K OLED microdisplays from Sony.

Kuo cites the headset’s “Mac-level (PC-level) computing power,” its ability to be operated untethered, and its wide range of applications as factors that will differentiate it from competitors. Various reports on the device have disagreed as to whether it will be wholly independent or rely on an iPhone or a separate processor box to stream content. This report also conflicts with The Information story that said this product will need to be connected with an iPhone to work.

Kuo seems convinced that it’ll be a standalone platform, however, writing “If the AR headset is positioned only as an accessory for the Mac or iPhone, it will not be conducive to the growth of the product. An AR headset that works independently means that it will have its own ecosystem and provide the most complete and flexible user experience.”