Apple Joins Forces With Valve; New AR Headsets On Its Way?

Apple is reportedly venturing into developing new AR headsets in a new partnership with game developer company- Valve. Reports have surfaced that Apple could launch the Augmented Reality headset next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Valve, a well-known game developer and publisher, will aid Apple with the AR headsets.

Apple AR Headsets Under Development

The Apple AR headsets were reportedly scrapped, according to an earlier report. A few months ago, it was believed that Apple had disbanded the team working on the AR/VR headsets and had reassigned them to other product developments. But with the new update, it looks like it was a temporary halt.

The Apple AR Headsets, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, will be released during the first half of 2020 as told to DigiTimes. Kuo also notes that Apple might partner with third-party brands to design the headset. According to the DigiTimes report, Apple might work with Taiwan-based manufacturers Quanta Computer and Pegatron.

The Apple AR headset has no other details regarding the hardware or the specifications. However, some reports claim that the device will feature some essential tools. For one, the upcoming Apple AR headset is expected to sync with the iPhone to display messages, maps, and more importantly- games.

Apple AR Headset, Other Tech Gear

At the same time, Apple is believed to be working on holographic lenses. Reports state that these holographic lenses will likely serve as a technical backbone of the AR headset and will aid to bring the Augmented Reality experience to life. The holographic lenses are key overlaying the digital displays to integrate with real-life objects.

Diving further, a recently filed patent shows that Apple is working on a technology categorized as a 'display device', which could be the AR headset. The speculated Apple AR headset will feature a 'reflective holographic combiner' technology which is believed to increase the depth-of-field and is speculated to reduce the eyestrain and nausea caused by the AR and VR technology.