Even more rumors suggest that Apple's mixed reality headset could cost upwards of $2,000 at launch (around $1,500 / AU$2,750).
While Apple has yet to officially announce its virtual reality and augmented reality plans, multiple leaks have suggested that the tech giant is developing an Apple MR headset, as well as a pair of augmented reality-enabled Apple glasses.
This latest pricing rumor comes from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter and follows a host of other leaks over the past week regarding Apple's VR efforts.
However, instead of making us more excited to see what Apple has developed, every detail has made its VR and AR plans less and less attractive. If Apple dreams of competing with Meta in the VR space, it may need to update its plans, or its MR headset may be dead on arrival.
Review: The wrong price at the wrong time
From what we've recently heard about Apple's MR headset, we can expect a product as powerful as the M1 MacBook Pro, delivering full virtual and augmented reality experiences while weighing less than 150g; It seems almost too good to be true.
Unfortunately, everything has a price. The headset should cost between €2000 and €3000, but we've also heard that you'll only be able to play for short periods (likely due to intentional battery limitations) and we probably won't be able to use it. until 2023.
By then, Apple's biggest competitor in the space, Meta, will likely have released two headphones that threaten to drive Apple out before it can enter the space.
The first of these Meta devices is Project Cambria, which is expected to launch this year based on the company's comments during its 2021 keynote. This specific high-end VR headset will cost more than its Oculus Quest line of devices. , but will offer enhanced features that facilitate more immersive experiences.
The second device would be the long-awaited Oculus Quest 3, and if these two headsets launch by 2023, then an Apple headset would find itself fighting a battle from both sides.
Users who want a great VR experience without paying thousands would opt for an Oculus Quest 3, which would likely be priced around $250-$400 to match the Oculus Quest 2. Meanwhile, gamers and businesses looking to a premium option could go for Project Cambria – likely to launch for under €2,000 to continue Meta's success with affordable VR headsets.
The only thing Apple's MR headset would have is augmented reality, but the Oculus Quest 2 already has some limited AR tools and may have an advantage here.
Even if the rumored inclusion of a powerful M1 chip comes to fruition, it seems Apple's headphones will only be able to be used in short bursts anyway.
There is a possibility that we could see changes in Apple's plans. We recently heard that Apple is delaying the device to 2023, due to ongoing development issues, but Apple may be bidding its time and looking to release the best possible version of the product.
That said, Apple is a company that likes to do its own thing, for better or worse, so whenever it chooses to advertise its MR headphones, you may be left with a product that no one wants.
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