Apple will release its augmented reality (AR)-mixed reality (MR) headset in January next year, as the buzz around metaverse gains steam.
According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the vast potential demand in the Chinese market and "Apple AR/MR, which will likely release in January 2023, will also favour the continued rapid growth of the headset sector".
"Although Apple has repeatedly reiterated its focus on AR, I believe Apple AR/MR supporting video see-thru could also offer an excellent immersive experience," Kuo predicted.
"Therefore, the launch of Apple AR/MR will further boost the demand for immersive gaming/multimedia entertainment," he added.
Earlier report predicted that Apple may launch its AR/MR headset this year.
Kuo says Apple is a "a game-changer for the VR headset industry."
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Apple is also reportedly planning to launch RealityOS for its headset.
The RealityOS has appeared in a trademark filing, "which hasn't been officially filed by the Apple but it's common practice for large companies to apply for trademarks under one-off company".
The RealityOS powered headsets will be able to offer a combination of VR and AR experiences, immersing users in virtual content as well as layering virtual elements over real world environments.
During an interview with the Chinese state-run publication the China Daily this week, Apple CEO Tim Cook said he is excited about AR.
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"I think that we're still in the very early innings of how this technology will evolve. I couldn't be more excited about the opportunities we've seen in this space, and sort of stay tuned and you'll see what we have to offer," he was quoted as saying.
