The new Apple AR (Augmented Reality) is reported to be undergoing its "second phase of development", according to a paywalled preview of a Digitimes story. People are unsure about the probable launch of the device, but here's what we've heard so far:

Early Reports of Apple's Augmented Reality (AR) Technology

The news of having an Augmented Reality devices from Apple started way back in 2017 when Bloomberg reported that Apple was working on an AR headset that was reported to be launched sometime in 2020. The report detailed that the headset had a new System-in-package design that is reflective of the Apple Watch Series 1 Chip. On its own, it could run a new rOs operating systsem that is still based on Apple's iOs. Although the initial report was released, the product did not push through.

According to Financial Times, on that same year, Apple also developed the Augmented Reality Glasses that would have 3D cameras to be paired with the iPhone in order to work. With the development of Apple's ARKit API with iOS 11 during that same year, it was expected that the development for AR devices could push through.

In 2018, the Augmented Reality plans for Apple continued with various discussions among other companies such as EMagin to produce OLED display components to be used for the AR headset. It was echoed by Ming-Chi Kuo, when he asid that the first mass production of Apple's AR devices would launch in the year 2019 to 2020, but that the schedule was still ambiguous.

First Look at Apple's AR Glasses

Finally, a report from Bloomberg last June 2020 stated that Apple is currently developing an Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Headset alongside making an Augmented Reality-only Glasses. According to the report, the AR glasses would be sleek and lighweight. The earliest report for the AR glasses would be 2023, the earliest.

It further suggested that Apple's AR Glasses could show text, emails, navigations, games, and other information through holographic display that is built in inyto the AR lens. According to the report, the user can control the glasses using the iPhone an using Siri. Lastly, he stated reports about how Apple is planning on making AR/VR apps to be launched on App Store. The device being controlled mainly through the phone allows it to be sleek and lightweight.

The AR Glasses will be powered by an internal system called StarBoard, which makes it possible to render AR images on the phone, and to the glasses. This technology is reflective of the first Apple watch that was powered by WatchKit Apps.

Finally, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said through 9to5Mac this month that Apple suppliers are preparing for an Augmented Reality device to be released for 2021. He did not specify what kind of reality device will be released. There are no leaked prices as of the moment for the AR/VR Headset as well as for the AR Glasses. However, this recent news gives people hopes that 2021 will be a year of new heights for Apple.

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Written by Nikki Delgado