Apple virtual reality might be the next big thing.
Key details
Apple appears to be preparing to announce its dive into the virtual reality (VR) market, based on a set of trademark filings.
A shell company called Immersive Health Solutions LLC has trademarks filed for the names “Reality One,” “Reality Pro,” and “Reality Processor” in multiple countries.
“Trademark filings suggest that Apple Inc. may be staking claim to potential names for its highly anticipated mixed-reality headset, part of the tech giant’s push into its first new product category in years,” says Bloomberg.
“Apple’s headset is expected to combine virtual- and augmented-reality technology and vault the company into closer competition with Meta Platforms Inc., the leading provider of VR gear.”
Why it’s news
It would mark the first new Apple hardware since the Apple Watch.
Apple is inserting itself into a highly competitive and lucrative market. It will be competing with major VR brands such as Oculus Rift and Valve Index. The VR market was estimated to be worth $6.1 billion in 2020, according to Market and Markets. It is projected to be worth $20.9 billion in 2025.
The company though appears to have accounted for this and may be planning to integrate VR technology into future devices, including a potential future replacement for the iPhone.
“Apple’s headset is expected to include VR-based versions of Apple apps like Maps and FaceTime in addition to collaboration features for multiple users wearing the headsets. It’s also slated to have a focus on consuming media content like sports and movies in VR and gaming. The latest trademarks also imply the device may have health-related functions,” says Bloomberg.
Backing up a bit
Apple’s VR is rumored to have faced numerous delays. It is believed to have been working on a VR headset since 2015 and initially planned to release it in 2021 and told supply-chain partners not to expect the device before late 2023.
“The company is aiming to release its first mixed-reality headset at the high end of the market in 2023, but the device has faced issues with camera sensors, software, and overheating during development,” says Bloomberg.
Using shell names to register trademarks is a common Apple practice, done in order to keep its activities secret.