A render of a potential Apple headset [AppleInsider]

While Apple is apparently planning to ship its mixed-reality headset later in 2023, the company is apparently preparing for problems to arise in manufacturing the device.

The keynote of WWDC 2023 is expected to be dominated by Apple's headset, an Apple VR or AR device that may ship to the public months later. However, in one report, it seems that Apple is preparing for the introduction of a new hardware platform to be tougher than usual.

In an overview of the Apple headset's story so far, the Wall Street Journal covers a lot of already well-discussed ground, including the rumored $3,000 price tag and the external battery. Among those elements, the report also claims that Apple is "already anticipating some production issues" with the device.

The mass production of the headset won't occur until September, the report insists, "due to manufacturing delays" told to it by people "familiar with the issue." The details of the issue itself are not mentioned by the publication.

The team behind the headset apparently planned to ship it a number of times over the last few years, however delays such as "coordinating the software to run properly with the hardware" got in the way.

Along with expected problems making the headset, the device will be a fairly scarce commodity by Apple standards. It is thought the initial 2023 shipment forecasts lie between 200,000 and 300,000 units, with the lower figure more likely if manufacturing issues do occur.

Malcolm Owen

Based in South Wales, Malcolm Owen has written about tech since 2012, and previously wrote for Electronista and MacNN. In his downtime, he pursues photography, has an interest in magic tricks, and is bothered by his cats.