Apple, the American electronics developer, is reportedly in the process of creating its own augmented reality helmet, which could be released before the end of the year.
According to sources close to the company, the head of Apple, Tim Cook, has given his support for the project, which is being led by the operating officer, Jeff Williams.
Cook sees the helmet as a potential flagship product for the company, which could even surpass the iPhone in popularity.
However, designers within the company are reportedly opposed to the release of the helmet in its current form, believing that it needs more time to be developed and refined.
Even if the helmet is released this year, sales are not expected to be particularly high initially.
Reports suggest that Apple is aiming to sell up to a million units in the first year, compared to the significantly higher sales of the first-generation iPhone.
The helmet is expected to feature multiple cameras and high-resolution screens, enabling users to watch 3D videos, participate in interactive workouts, and communicate with virtual avatars via FaceTime.
However, with a price tag of $3,000, the helmet is likely to be beyond the reach of many consumers.
In comparison, Meta*, a company also working on a helmet, is focused on virtual reality as part of its strategy for the metaverse.
However, the company’s efforts in this area have not yet fully materialized.
Journalists from The Verge have tried out a Meta* virtual helmet, but reported issues with the accuracy of eye-tracking and battery life.
Quest Pro, the Meta* helmet, is priced at $1,499 in the US, less than half the expected cost of the Apple helmet.