Apple Reality Operating System (or rOS for short) just seemed to be rebranded to Apple xrOS. Analysts took it as a hint that Apple was close to launching its mixed or eXtended Reality (XR) device as planned for early 2023. New reports indicate that headset shipment is delayed to the second half of 2023 due to software-related issues.
Key insights in this post
- Reports indicate that Apple rebranded Reality OS (rOS) to xrOS
- Shipment of the mixed reality device seems delayed to second half of 2023
- Expected volume less than 500.000 units in 2023 at a price of ~3.000 USD
At the very beginning of December 2022, Apple was rumored to rename its Apple Reality OS (rOS) to Apple xrOS for the launch of the Apple mixed reality headset anticipated in the early first half of 2023. This rumor fueled the idea that Apple is close to launching its next big thing.
Just a few days later, tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the mixed (AR/VR) headset with Apple xrOS may be delayed until the second half of 2023 due to software-related issues. Kuo also expects the first XR headset from Apple to be an expensive, niche product with a volume of less than 500K units in 2023 and an estimated retail price of around $3000.
Presumptions of Apple xrOS
Although Apple did not disclose any information of their XR operating system, it is likely this revolutionary new platform promises to blur the line between the digital world and the physical world like never before.
Knowing Apple, xrOS aims to create a seamless, intuitive experience for users. A mixed reality operating system like Apple xrOS will use augmented reality (AR) technology to superimpose digital information and objects onto the real world, allowing users to interact with both the physical and digital world in a natural and intuitive way.
The $3000 question: dimmable VR as well?
Magic Leap is a competitor of Apple in the metaverse space. Magic Leap 2 introduced a new feature that dims reality to improve the visibility of superimposed digital information onto the real world.
That begs the question: will Apple be able to something similar or even better? Apple might have succeeded to completely support a shielded VR mode with its mixed reality headset. That will literally be the best of both worlds.
One of the key features of Apple xrOS will unmistakably be its integration with Apple’s popular personal assistant, Siri. With Siri integration, users will be able to access all the assistant’s features and capabilities simply by speaking to their device. This will make it easy for users to perform a wide range of tasks, from setting reminders and sending messages to accessing information and controlling their virtual objects.
Another anticipated standout feature of Apple xrOS is its ability to automatically detect and recognize objects in the physical world. Using advanced computer vision algorithms, the operating system will be able to identify objects in a user’s environment and provide relevant information about them. For example, if a user points their device at a piece of artwork, Apple xrOS could provide information about the artist, the medium, and the history of the piece.
The Apple xrOS App Store
Apple xrOS will include a range of new AR-based apps and games, presumably in its very own xrOS-store. These apps will allow users to experience the digital world in entirely new ways, such as by placing virtual furniture in their living room to see how it looks before making a purchase, or by playing AR-based games that use the real world as the game board.
Apple xrOS has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world. With its seamless integration of AR technology and intuitive user interface, Apple xrOS will sure be a game-changer in the world of (spatial) computing.
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