Rumors surfaced again this week that
Apple is planning a portable
virtual reality headset and a pair of mobile
augmented reality smartglasses for commercial launch in the US and worldwide during 2022 or 2023.
The
VR headset is claimed to be a premium model, standalone like Oculus, with a hand-tracker, made from
lightweight fabric (not metal) and a cooling fan, optimized for longer periods of perching on the head, eyes or ears.
Let's call it the "iVR".
Hollywood movies, video, gaming, etc. are likely to be the
killer apps.
Rich, young-at-heart
consumers are sure to be the target segment. There may even be an office or factory play.
Apple Store or website will be the primary
retail channel.
This is all fairly
predictable, of course. No surprises.
But competitors will still be
worried. Apple can leverage its legendary user-experience, make VR an acceptable in-home activity, and spark a rush to new devices and apps.
A VR
revolution could be right around the corner.