Apple’s AR/VR headset will focus on games, sports, FaceTime and more
If all goes as planned, Apple will announce its mixed reality headset at WWDC on June 5. The product, which will combine augmented reality and virtual reality, will focus on games, sports, well-being and more.
Multiple domains with Apple’s headphones
Bloomberg explains that Apple plans to adapt iPad apps to the AR/VR headset and users will be able to access existing App Store content through the device’s 3D interface. Apple-designed applications (Safari, Calendar, Contacts, Files, Messages, Notes, Photos, Music, etc.) will be optimized for the headset. It will be possible to run several applications at the same time and geolocation will allow switching from one application to another when the user is in another room.
An application dedicated to FaceTime will be available and it will be possible to use an avatar with its personalized Memoji. It will also be possible to have a 3D interface to work on projects in collaboration with other people. On the other hand, there will be a Books application for reading in virtual reality. A Camera application will take pictures from the sensors of the helmet.
Another planned application: Fitness+ will allow exercising while watching the instructor in a virtual reality environment. There will also be a Health app to guide users through meditations with graphics, sounds and voiceovers.
With Apple’s push into sports, the focus will be on immersive viewing experiences for MLB (baseball) and MLS (football) content. And there will be a dedicated TV app for watching videos in virtual reality environments.
Employees fear a flop
Apple is currently working with several game developers so they can port their existing games to the unisex headset. Developers will also have access to several tools to develop specific applications in augmented reality and/or virtual reality.
The big challenge for Apple will be to sell the headphones. If rumors are to be believed, the price will be around $3,000. Apple employees have expressed concerns about the headset’s usefulness given its price. Some wonder if the device was not a solution in search of a problem.
