Apple's Rumored $3,000+ AR/VR Headset Said to Enter Mass Production in August-September

Apple's first AR/VR headset will enter mass production this fall with a launch taking place before the end of the year, according to industry sources cited today in a report from DigiTimes.

apple ar headset concept 2Concept render based on purported leaked information by Ian Zelbo

Yesterday, DigiTimes previewed a report stating that Apple's headset has completed production tests, and now, in the full report published today, the publication said the headset would enter mass production in August-September. According to the report, with production taking place in the fall, Apple is still aiming to launch this year.

Apple's first AR headset, mainly targeting professional vertical market applications, is expected to undergo EVT3 soon and enter volume production in August-September before hitting the market by the end of the year, the sources said.

Recent reporting by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman highlighting development issues with the headset has cast doubt on a 2022 launch, suggesting a launch in 2023 may be more likely. Apple is planning to launch a second version of its AR/VR headset in 2023 that's lighter, features an improved battery, and is priced more affordably, according to ‌DigiTimes‌.

Apple is currently working on two different AR/VR products. The first is an AR/VR headset worn over the eyes, similar to the Oculus Quest. That headset is said to be a niche product aimed at developers and high-end professionals, as evidenced by rumors it may cost upwards of $3,000. The second product in the works are "Apple Glasses," which will come in the form of traditional eyeglasses and represent Apple's ultimate near-term goal in the augmented reality space.

Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro
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Top Rated Comments

LeeW Avatar
50 months ago
At $3k each, I doubt 'mass production' is that accurate.
Score: 30 Votes (Like | Disagree)
WiiDSmoker Avatar
50 months ago
Remember when everyone thought the original iPad was gonna be $1K+?
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
incoherent_1 Avatar
50 months ago

Remember when everyone thought the original iPad was gonna be $1K+?
Exactly. Almost certainly intentional leaks by Apple's PR dept.

If they announced it yesterday at $999, people would scream bloody murder. They leak it'll be $2k+ for months, then suddenly it's announced at $999 and people are thrilled.

Apple's PR department is well known for these kinds of leaks to manage expectations and prime people.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Schizoid Avatar
50 months ago
Can’t wait to wear my VR goggles whilst jiggling to Apple Fitness shouting at Siri to change the music whilst my Apple Watch tells me it’s found something on the internet!
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Thebrochure Avatar
50 months ago
Better start donating those bodily fluids now people!
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
MandiMac Avatar
50 months ago

Remember when everyone thought the original iPad was gonna be $1K+?
That's exactly what I came here for to say. And then, bam, 499 it was.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)