Apple may not show off mixed-reality AR/VR headset at WWDC as mass production reportedly delayed
David Joseppi
Posted On 30/03/2023 
Apple’s long-rumored mixed-reality AR/VR headset may not be unveiled at WWDC23 after all, with respected TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo saying Apple has chosen to delay the device’s mass production schedule to the middle to the end of the third quarter of 2023.
According to Kuo, Apple is doubting whether now is the right time to showoff the headset, saying that the “economic downturn, compromises on some hardware specifications for mass production (such as weight), the readiness of the ecosystem and applications, a high selling price (USD 3,000-4,000 or even higher), etc” are all factors that could see the headset’s debut postponed.
Apple announced yesterday that it will be hosting its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 5 through June 9, where the iPhone maker is expected to announce iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS 14, and more.
In 2021 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
