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Apple's framework for augmented reality solutions appears in text and code documents multiple times, suggesting Apple may be testing the activation or application of this technology. There are still many questions about when the products will launch, what they do, and how much they'll cost.
Apple Glasses are not for everyone. Here's what we currently know about Apple Glasses. This includes the possible release date, pricing, design, and specifications.
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Apple Glasses News
- Apple Glasses are expected to be available in 2026. This is because the analysts believe that the metalenses on which the glasses would likely be built won't begin production before 2024.
- Apple Glasses have reportedly been delayed yet again due to difficulties in the development of their product. Apple may release a mixed-reality headset that is cheaper instead.
- Another delay? From Research (opens in a new tab), wrote to MarketWatch that Apple Glasses may be delayed up until 2026.
- Apple has been linked with trademarks for the branding of Reality One(opens a new tab), Reality Pro(opens a new tab), and Reality Processor(opens a new tab). There could also be a reality processor.
Apple Glasses Release Date Rumors
Apple Glass is not expected to release anytime soon. Apple's AR/VR headset, expected to debut at WWDC in 2023 (June), is the first thing that will be announced. Analysts now predict that Apple Glasses will follow the AR/VR headset, and they are expected to be available in 2026. We believe that the metalenses on which the Apple Glasses will be built won't begin to produce until 2024.
We also confirmed a possible delay by pointing out the technical difficulties involved with making Apple Glasses a reality. Apple could be prioritizing the cheaper mixed reality headset with an expected launch in 2024-2025.
Apple Glasses vs Apple VR Headset and Mixed Reality Headset
Apple VR, a mixed-reality headset, is in development and may be more complex than Apple Glass. The Apple VR and mixed reality headset reportedly features ultra-high-resolution screens and a cinematic speaker system that should enable realistic visual experiences, according to people who have seen prototypes.
Sources also claimed that the headset looks similar to a fabric-covered Oculus Quest. However, the design has not been finalized as the company is still testing the best fit for the majority of head shapes. No word yet on the price. We don't think it will be inexpensive. Microsoft's HoloLens 2 costs $3,500, while Microsoft's HoloLens 2 begins at just $399. Apple's headset is expected to cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
Apple VR headsets and mixed-reality headsets will benefit, like their competitors, from an App Store where they can download gaming software, streaming video, and communication applications. Siri, Apple's voice assistant, will control the headset. A physical remote or body tracking controls may also be tested. The VR headset will likely debut this year after a March announcement, according to rumors. Do you know the differences between virtual reality, mixed reality or augmented reality? You can find out what mixed reality is and what Microsoft Meta and Apple are planning for it.
Apple Glasses Price
Apple Glasses, according to Prosser, are priced at $499 plus prescription fees. This may not seem like a lot, but it is a bargain compared with other augmented reality headsets, such as the Microsoft Hololens 2
Hololens 2 costs $3,500. However, a large part of that cost is because all of the necessary electronics for the AR experience are built right into the headset.
Apple Glass will instead rely upon a compatible iPhone to process data, which will result in it having significantly fewer parts and complexity than Hololens. The smart glass will work like Vuzix Blade, with a built-in camera and Alexa integrated.
Vuzix Blade is still $799 (opens in a new tab). Apple's entry-level smartwatch is more affordable and costs as much as its top models.
Apple Glasses: Features you can Use
Apple AR Glasses, according to an article, will display information on your face from your smartphone. The glasses "should be able to sync with an iPhone and display information such as maps, texts, emails and games in the wearer's field-of-vision."
Apple is also planning to offer third-party applications and may create a separate mobile app ideas similar to the one for Apple TV or Apple Watch.
A patent awarded to Apple further fuels the rumor of Apple Glass not needing prescription lenses. The smart glasses are said to automatically adapt for those with bad eyesight by using "optical subassembly". This patent may be for Apple smart glasses or a standalone VR headset powered by a smartphone.
Apple's latest patent suggests it may also use a system that projects images into the eye of its users. Apple could avoid the use of any transparent displays.
Likely, the beam will also be able to ensure that the image stays sharp, thus avoiding displays which double up as prescription glasses. The frames could still serve as prescription lenses for people who need them.
Patent claims this will avoid many of the problems people might encounter in VR or AR. Apple says that headaches, nausea and eye strain are caused by the brain trying to focus on objects far away when they are actually on a screen less than one inch from the eyes. These problems can be prevented because retinal projection mimics the way that eyes perceive light.
Apple Glass patent describes a similar feature to Zoom, where you can change your background on-the-fly. This patent describes chroma-keying or replacing a solid-coloured background with another.
Apple Glass' patent shows how you can view areas of the world that you wish to see. This is similar to Google Street View. This view is projected onto Apple Glass' lenses. You could also digitally teleport between different places.
Apple Maps has an app called Look Around that offers a feature similar to Apple Glass. However, it is much more immersive. Apple's latest patent suggests that Apple Glass could also be capable of changing backgrounds in real-time, similar to Zoom. Apple Glass may be able to help users see in the dark better, thanks to depth sensors.
Apple Glasses could also track finger and hand movement more accurately, thanks to smart ring Apple patents. This will not only eliminate the need for external sensors (if there are any), but the system could also be more accurate. Apple has won more patents that support this theory. Wearables will be used for many features, including finger gestures.
Apple Glasses can detect the user's hand and react accordingly. If you are holding an Apple Pencil in your hand, then the glasses can track and convert those movements into text.
Apple has recently filed a patent for "private eyewear", which could refer to smart glasses like the Apple Glasses and their use in keeping what is on an iPhone display private. Apple's patent shows that the iPhone display will be blurred and can only be seen clearly through a pair of Apple smart sunglasses.
Apple Glasses Design
Apple Glass' current prototype is said to look like a pair of "intimidating plastic glasses". At the same time, the marketing material suggests a Clark Kent-style design. The right temple has a LiDAR scanner, and there are no cameras on it for reasons of privacy (although this could change). They also include a stand that has wireless chargers.
Apple Glasses will be influenced by its role as an iPhone accessory. The glasses may not be as lightweight as Ray-Ban Aviators, but they might be comfortable and light enough for everyday use.
Apple Glass' first-generation is not expected to be tinted. You'll have to use your old-fashioned sun blockers for the foreseeable future. If Apple Glass becomes a success, the company may consider expanding their offerings.
Apple Glass could also be armed with a modular feature. Rumored mixed reality glasses may feature interchangeable arms, each of which could serve a specific purpose.
Apple Glasses Specifications
Apple Glass specs are not yet known, but we're able to speculate based on what we already know. It will have the same resolution and field of vision (47ppi) (at least) as Hololens 2
Apple Glasses should be able to directly connect to an iPhone via a Wi-Fi connection if Apple is aiming to develop a real augmented reality system, as opposed to Google Glass' heads-up displays that show 2D floating maps or notifications.
The iPhone will need a higher bandwidth for this task than Bluetooth. It must process the entire video taken by the glasses and then send the 3D images back to them at an extremely high frame rate per second (ideally, a refresh of 120Hz).
Apple will also need a battery that lasts at least three hours to remain competitive. However, people are more tolerant of this than we think.
Apple Glasses Privacy and Patents
Patently Apple has spotted a patent that explores several ways Apple Glass can make its recording obvious to those who don't want to be captured on camera. Apple has explored the option of making Apple's camera removable. The patent states that "the modular accessory will also allow venues like bars and theaters to prohibit the modular accessory, while still allowing HMD frames (without accessory) in the venue."
Apple imagines that lights will also be used to indicate when the smart glass is recording. However, unlike the original glasses, this may result in the camera not working. The patent describes how lights can be pulsed in an encoded pattern to capture reflections of the environment being recorded. According to the patent, if the camera cannot detect the pattern, then the recording can be disabled.
Apple offers a third alternative, whereby the camera would be permanently embedded but not accessible unless the modular key was attached to the frame. Apple's latest patents indicate that Apple VR/AR could be used to detect finger gestures using Apple Watch or gloves. These features may also make it to Apple Glasses.
Apple Glasses RealityOS
Apple is expected to release a new operating system for a whole new form factor of the device. Developers have noted "realityOS", which appears in the App Store's upload logs. Apple could create a customized OS to run its VR and AR devices, although there isn't much info on the software. It's safe to say that this operating system will have more in common with iOS and macOS.
What is the Difference Between VR and AR?
VR headsets (virtual reality) have become increasingly popular since the launch of Oculus Rift in 2012. These are usually expensive, large and bulky gaming mobile devices designed to completely block out the world. They can therefore be used for professional and gaming tasks such as training pilots. Their bulk, the immersion they provide, and their reliance on computers or gaming consoles make them difficult to use on the go, let alone fashionable.
But AR is different. AR glasses app development experts can be seen through since they are transparent. They add digital overlays to your field of view. AR glasses project tiny screens onto one or both lenses to allow the user to view them. AR glasses are usually portable and light, just like normal glasses. They can also be worn outside.
Apple is rumored to be developing both AR glasses as well as a VR/AR headset. Apple AR glasses would certainly fit into the AR category. However, it is important to remember that Cupertino will likely release an Apple AR/AR headset first. This would be more in line with the VR description.
Read More: Past, Present, and Future of Virtual and Augmented Reality in 2023
Apple AR Rumored glasses cost
Apple has already begun developing cheaper headsets, which could be released in 2024. Analysts shared their expectations last year that an Apple AR headset would cost around $1,000. Digitimes reported a $2,000 price tag for the Apple AR headset in late September 2021. A higher price seems more likely.
Apple AR Glasses Latest Leaks
- Apple is in a rush as the announcement of its AR/VR headsets nears.
- Apple CEO shares his vision of AR.
- Apple's latest operating system for AR headsets is referenced on GitHub as RealityOS.
- A new rumor claims that Apple is working on a second-generation Apple AR headset, which will be more affordable.
- According to a new report, Apple will unveil its long-awaited AR/VR headgear at WWDC this June.
- Apple's VR/AR Headset: The most detailed look to date.
- AR glasses will not be happening. Two Apple headsets may be on the horizon, but AR glass is still a long way off.
Apple has been working on smart AR glasses since early 2017, at the very least. Apple CEO expressed his enthusiasm for AR in an interview at that time. We called it "huge" while also suggesting the technology may not yet be "ready" "for the mass market". The release date of Apple AR glasses has been speculated. Apple has been granted several patents over the years that are related to the Apple AR Glasses, as well as a possible separate VR headset. In 2020, rumors circulated that Apple could launch glasses in 2021-2022. However, all of these rumors have proven false.
Analysts have suggested a roadmap for Apple AR products starting in 2022. This includes a headset with a "helmet-type" Apple AR, followed by a glasses-type Apple AR by 2025, and then contact lenses by 2030-2040.
A report further along in the story claims that Apple's AR headset will be delayed until Q2 2023. An announcement event is scheduled for January, and pre-orders are expected to open shortly after. The wearable is also expected to be available by WWDC in 2023, which will take place in June. This is to be treated with caution, as the wearable has been repeatedly delayed, and more delays seem likely.
Apple AR Glasses Design Speculations
Apple's smart glasses are expected to look as stylish and sleek as possible, given the capabilities of their technology. In a podcast, Apple's glasses will look like traditional glasses. This is plausible. The glasses will not look like "heavy machines on the face" but instead be aimed at consumers.
The leaker claimed that Apple AR glasses in black and white were both prototypes seen in 2020. Apple's glasses will support prescription lenses, and we also said the lenses could be interchangeable.
Apple AR Glasses Display Expectations
Apple's AR Glasses will likely have one or two small projectors per frame that would allow an image to be projected onto the lenses. This image will appear as an overlay on the environment to observers.
Certain apps may feature 3D effects if the Apple Glasses can project in both eyes by using two projectors - one projector for each eye. In 2019, CNET reported that Apple's glasses could project at 8K resolution, which is 7680 by 4320 pixels for each eye.
Apple's AR Glasses will probably feature at least two speakers - one on each side and near the users' ears - like most existing AR and VR products today.
It's not unlike the Amazon Echo Frames or other smart glasses. These glasses do not have a screen, but they still feature four speakers, one in each frame. They also include a microphone. The user can interact with Amazon Alexa and receive feedback while wearing the device.
Apple filed a patent on February 25, revealing that Apple Glasses could have a wide array of microphones. The patent in question suggests that the Apple glasses will use indicators to "direct the user towards the source of sound". Apple has filed many patents related to glasses. Still, it is unclear if this particular one is for the actual product or relates to a concept that was scrapped.
Apple AR Glasses Software Rumors and Speculations
The name of the operating system is rumored to be realityOS, internally called rOS. Apple's first headset -- likely to be released under the Reality brand -- will cost around $3,000, including nascent technologies like pass-through cameras, in-air typing, hand and eye control and ultra-high-resolution displays. The headset will have an external power source and main applications that are not likely to appeal to the masses.
The product is likely to be more interesting to developers than to the average consumer, who's glued to his iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The headset will need several years before it becomes a popular product among Apple users.
Apple's smart glasses will work similarly to Amazon Echo Frames. Users can interact by using their voice with Siri, asking it to make calls, answer questions, take notes, play podcasts, etc.
Apple Glasses will also likely display the user's iPhone notifications and show them messages, maps, directions, or other helpful content. Apple Glasses will likely have its own App Store, which would include 3D AR Games and dedicated augmented reality company apps.
Apple AR Glasses Controls Speculated
Touch, voice, a ring, gloves? What will be your interaction with Apple Glasses? Apple's application from mid-2019 revealed the company was working on magnetic sensor technology to detect whether a user is wearing gloves. The patent shows that these gloves can be used to interact with Apple glasses using gestures.
Apple's patent shows a user using a glove to interact with AR glasses. Apple could also choose a less obvious way to control the Apple Glasses, such as touch controls integrated into their frames or a smart band for gesture-free controls.
A future Apple Watch may also be capable of supporting air gestures for interaction with Apple's AR Glasses. According to the latest rumors, a user could also navigate using an Apple Watch-style digital crown or by wearing a finger-mounted pointing device. Apple was reportedly testing these different ways of navigating. Still, we don't know which one they will use for their final product.
Apple AR Glasses Camera Speculations
Apple smart glasses will have a built-in camera. LiDAR or a camera? Due to privacy concerns, Apple's smart AR glass is unlikely to have an integrated camera. Google Glass, Google's AR glasses attempt, was criticized for its camera. It could have been used without the person's knowledge to take pictures or videos in public.
Wearing Google Glass was also banned from certain public places, including casinos and cinemas, because it had a camera built-in. Apple is likely to follow suit, as most AR glasses no longer include cameras.
Analysts expect an Apple AR headset will have 15 cameras. Eight of those cameras are used to record AR videos. This could, as previously stated, be something different from Apple VR Glasses, which the Cupertino firm is also developing. Apple Glass is unlikely to include cameras, and it will likely focus only on AR. However, the potential Apple VR headset is said to be able to handle both AR and VR.
Apple smart glasses could include Apple's LiDAR camera sensor. We've already seen it on Apple's iPad Pro and iPhone 12 Pro. Apple may be able to avoid privacy issues by including LiDAR, even though it isn't a camera that can take clear pictures and videos.
Apple AR Glasses Battery and Charging Speculations
Apple's Glasses will not be able to use large batteries due to their size restrictions. Therefore, the glasses must be highly energy-efficient. Each frame would probably have a small integrated battery.
Apple's patent shows an AR headset docking in a docking system. Apple's patent applications published in March 2020 indicated that Apple was considering charging its glasses wirelessly using a dock. According to the patent, the glasses would likely contain magnets or coils which will allow inductive charging.
Apple Glasses Wish List: What We Want
Natural-looking glasses like those on the page. Apple probably wants the same thing. Nobody wants AR glasses to look like geeky wear. Ar with full 3d support. Some users would prefer a heads-up display, but full 3D integration is what gives AR its true power. Apple Glasses should allow you to use any iOS AR application that is currently available on your iPhone.
Battery life of at least 8 hours. Assuming that you are not using 3D AR applications all the time and instead look up notifications or 2D apps periodically, Apple could find a solution to allow Apple Glasses to last through a typical workday. However, this may not be possible in the initial generation.
