Apple is expected to announce its AR Headset at its WWDC 2023 event alongside iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and other notable updates. The company is also working on another AR product with a compact design. According to a prominent analyst, Apple will launch the AR Glasses in 2026 or 2027 with metalens technology. Scroll down to read more details on the matter.
Apple to use Metalens technology with AR Glasses, launch expected in 2026 to 2027
In a post on Medium, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculates that Apple is working on new metalens technology to replace the traditional plastic covers on various products. We have previously reported that the company will also bring the technology to future iPhone and iPad models. According to Kuo's destinations, the metalens covers will be mass-produced starting in 2024 and will be used for Face ID in iPhone and iPad Pro models.
If you are unfamiliar with the technology, the metalens is a flat cover that uses metasurfaces to focus light. Compared to what Apple uses today, the metalens covers are thinner. If production goes according to plan, Apple will use the metalens covers for its AR Glasses in 2026 at the earliest, according to Kuo. The same lens will also be used by Apple for cameras in the following years.
This is the first time that we are hearing details on the metalens covers for Apple's AR Glasses. Kuo previously reported that Apple halted its developmental plans for the AR Glasses to focus on its AR Headset. While no exact details on the launch time frame have been shared so far, it is expected that Apple's AR Headset will be announced at WWDC 2023 event and will reach consumers later this year.
While the Apple AR Glasses make a lot more sense for daily users, the AR headset is somewhat of a device that you would only use at home. Henceforth, the prior features should focus more on utilities like messages, calls, and emails. On the flip side, the AR Headset should focus more on entertainment. We have previously reported that the headset will greatly emphasize on gaming and entertainment.
Take note that these are mere speculations at this point, and the final word rests with Apple. If the company sees fit, it can alter its plans to use metalens covers on the AR Glasses. We will share more details on the subject as soon as further details are available. Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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