Ultra-light mixed-reality headset
Super-thin lenses and fabric covering will cut down on bulk
Rumours have swirled for a while now that Apple is working on a mixed-reality headset that would combine augmented reality (AR) with virtual reality (VR). Now, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared new info surrounding the device, including details on its lenses and rough weight.
Kuo believes the headset will weigh as little as 150g. As noted in his report, most VR headsets weigh at least 300g, with many clocking in much higher (the Valve Index, for instance, weighs 809g). Apple will achieve this low weight by ditching heavy materials and instead incorporating fabric in much of the headset’s body, says Kuo. The analyst claims another way Apple will lower the weight is by using plastic Fresnel lenses instead of glass alternatives, which will allow the lenses to be made thinner and lighter. Fresnel lenses offer improved fields of view and ultra-short focal lengths, but can suffer from reduced brightness. To counter that,
Apple is reportedly planning to use microLED displays with 8K resolutions in the headset.
If all this comes to pass, Apple’s mixed-reality headset could be a real treat for your peepers. Rumours point to a $1,000 price (about £750) and an announcement at some point this year, so keep your eyes peeled.