Apple has long been rumored to be working on an all-new mixed reality headset that would offer users augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences.
With reports suggesting Apple could announce its new AR/VR headset as soon as later this year, trademark filing details for “realityOS,” the name Apple will likely give the operating system that runs on the new headset, has appeared online, pointing to a potential preview at WWDC in less than 10 days.
Earlier this year, source code found in the App Store upload logs and open source dyld repo gave our first reference to “realityOS,” practically confirming the upcoming headset will feature an App Store where developers will be able to build and distribute AR/VR apps to users.
Now, two separate trademark filings have been shared by Parker Ortolani on Twitter, who notes that both were initially submitted in December 2021. While the filings aren’t under Apple’s name, the iPhone maker is known for creating new companies and registering trademarks under the new company names to avoid detection by the press.
Registered to fictitious “Realityo Systems LLC,” the filings cover “software,” and “wearable computer hardware.”
Image: Ian Zelbo
The rumored new AR/VR device will reportedly feature two ultra-high-resolution 8K displays with a “bevy” of other features, including advanced eye-tracking technology and the ability to pass video of the real world through the visor and display it to the user, offering a “mixed-reality effect.” It will mark Apple’s first major new product launch since the original Apple Watch in October 2014.
Last year we saw The Information publish a sketch of the upcoming headset, claiming to have seen secret internal imagery from an unnamed source “with direct knowledge” of the development, reporting that the device will offer a “sleek, curved visor attached to the face by a mesh material and swappable headbands.”
Concept creator Ian Zelbo has released visuals showing what Apple’s new headset will probably look like based on earlier leaked information, featuring an Apple Watch-style adjustable headband and AirPods Max reminiscent mesh cushion for comfort around the wearer’s eyes.
Image: Ian Zelbo