Apple's new AR/VR headset is scheduled to launch in late 2022, but due to supply shortages and other issues, it will only be available in very limited quantities until 2023, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports.
Ming-Chi Kuo reiterates his previous prediction that Apple has delayed production of its first headset until late 2022, saying this will give supplier Genius an advantage. Genius is one of two companies Apple has ordered pancake/Fresnel lenses from, although production yields so far are lower than rival Young Optics. In his letter to investors, Kuo says Apple's AR/VR production delays will help Genius close the gap in pancake lens production yields with Young Optics.
AR/VR headset: Apple could show a prototype at WWDC 2022
Although Apple could unveil the headset before the end of 2022, delivery quantities will be severely limited until the first calendar quarter of 2023, Kuo said. But the limited initial quantities will Apple help diversify its supply chain. Kuo's estimate for Apple production by the end of 2022 is consistent with a recent research report by Loup Ventures partner and analyst Gene Munster. Munster believes it's possible that an Apple AR headset will be announced at WWDC 2022, albeit only as a prototype. According to a recent report, Apple's AR/VR headset will feature an "innovative triple-display configuration" combining two Micro-OLED displays and one AMOLED panel. Other rumors suggest the device will be equipped with advanced sensors for ambient and gesture recognition, as well as a powerful chip. The price is expected to be around $3,000. (Image: Rendersbyjan)
