Apple won't introduce its often-rumored VR/AR headset during WWDC, with battery issues reportedly forcing Apple to delay the hardware release into 2023.
Recent rumors have pushed the narrative that Apple will go big on AR and VR for WWDC 2022, to give developers a chance to make apps for a headset launch later in 2022. However, a report claims Apple will be waiting until 2023 to launch the hardware, casting doubt on its appearance during the developer conference.
In an article discussing Apple's tapping of Hollywood directors to develop content for the headset, sources of the New York Times discuss the hiring of Mike Rockwell from Dolby Technologies to work on the headset. The two people familiar with the project said that issues have forced Apple to postpone a release until 2023.
It is claimed that early attempts by Rockwell to create an AR product were "hobbled by weak computing power." However, challenges relating to battery power are supposedly behind the increased delay.
A trademark filing has seemingly indicated that "realityOS" could be the name for the operating system used by the headset, which may still be shown off during WWDC itself. In preparation for the headset's launch, Apple could still offer developers tools for the creation of apps using existing available hardware, or possibly even via a developer kit.
