According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is aiming to release its second-generation AR/VR headset in the first half of 2025, with a more high-end configuration approach and more inexpensive options. Here's what we know so far:
Second-Generation Apple AR/VR Headset in 2025
Apple's mixed reality headgear, which combines augmented reality and virtual reality in a single device, has long been speculated. However, the much-anticipated initiative has yet to be formally launched by Apple itself and has encouraged predictions to circulate around.
For the record, Apple has not yet produced its first AR/VR headset. But Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says they plan to have a special event in January 2023 to demonstrate the device, as reported by Tech Times.
In a tweet, Kuo provided a more definite timeframe for Apple's mixed reality headset, which, contrary to popular belief, did not emerge during the WWDC address. Kuo says Apple will introduce the device during an event in January 2023, with developer tools delivered "within 2-4 weeks of the event." Pre-orders for the headset will begin in the second quarter of 2023, with users able to buy the headset before next year's WWDC.
[Analysis] Apple AR/MR Headset Prediction Update: 2nd, Shipments, Schedule, and Pancake Lens Supply Chain / Apple AR/MR頭盔預測更新：第二代、出貨量、時程與Pancake透鏡供應鏈 @mingchikuo https://t.co/XrZnRkRGHK
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) July 11, 2022
However, several sources have highlighted continued challenges with the headset's development. Hence, why the date of launch kept postponing its release over the next few years.
Recently as reported by Macrumors, the second-generation AR/VR headset is going to be costly, costing upwards of $3,000. According to the report, as Kuo analyzed, there might be a new cheap alternatives that would help Apple make its headgear more widespread.
"The second-generation Apple AR/VR may have high-end and more-affordable models, which will launch in 1H25, and component suppliers will start shipping in 2H24."
Because of the product segmentation strategy and ecosystem, Apple AR/VR headset shipments are anticipated to surpass 10 million units as early as 2025 or 2026.
Kuo's Prediction Update
Kuo stated in a Medium blog post that the high ASP Pancake lens is the primary optical component of Apple AR/MR, having a direct impact on the viewing experience and form factor layout. Genius is the primary provider of first-generation Apple AR/VR Pancake lenses, and Young Optics is the secondary source. GIS provides Pancake lens lamination. The providers listed above are likely to form part of the second-generation supply chain.
Apple's first-generation AR/VR headset will use two 3P Pancake modules, one for each eye. The Pancake lenses cost around $30-40 (USD), which is roughly comparable to 20 high-end 7P lenses. Considering both short and long term, it offers a new growth driver for Apple's optic distribution chain.
However, Kuo predicted that "The cost of the second-generation Pancake lenses will likely increase to improve the visual experience and form factor design."
Furthermore, Largan will most likely be a new supplier of the Pancake lens for the second-generation Apple AR/VR headset and will increase manufacturing capability in its new Taichung site to meet this highly-anticipated order.
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Thea Felicity
