Apple still planning AR/VR headset debut at WWDC, despite contradictory rumors

Apple still is planning to debut its long-rumored mixed-reality AR/VR headset at WWDC23 in June, despite a recent report which claimed that 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 Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.

Respected TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported last week that 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.

However, Gurman has dismissed the report, saying “The showcase at WWDC, the Worldwide Developers Conference, will likely include the headset itself, but also its onboard xrOS operating system, accompanying services, and — perhaps most critically — a software development kit and platform that will let developers write new types of apps.”

Apple announced last week 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