Apple Glasses reportedly delayed — but it’s not all bad news

Apple tree Glasses reportedly delayed — only it's not all bad news

(Prototype credit: Martin Hajek/iDropnews)

Apple Spectacles may accept just hit a stumbling block, with a report claiming the AR-powered specs take fallen behind their 2021 testing schedule.

This is according to DigiTimes, which is reporting that Apple tree Glasses' prototype 2 (P2) testing has all the same to brainstorm. While this sounds similar bad news, it just means it decreases the chances of a 2022 launch. And based on other leaks and reports, this did non seem probable in the outset place.

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DigiTimes previously reported that Apple tree was about to enter the second stage of Apple Glasses evolution. The focus of this phase was to help reduce weight and heave battery life, with some suggesting that the glasses could enter volume production as early as Q1 2022.

According to DigiTimes' sources, the Apple Glasses prototype may withal need to go through P3 testing, followed by another two to iii phases of engineering testing. Only and so will the spectacles be set up for mass product.

Going into mass product in early 2022, every bit originally predicted by the outlet's supply chain sources, would mean we would exist looking at a late 2022 launch at the absolute primeval. That was bold a best case scenario where Apple Glasses managed to get through the various phases of testing with no issues arising.

Simply we are talking most brand new technology here. While AR glasses and headsets do be, everything we've heard suggests that Apple is taking things much farther than anyone else has attempted up until now. Nosotros're talking nigh a stand-alone pair of augmented reality spectacles that will exist designed to exist both long-lasting and comfortable to wear for long periods of fourth dimension.

Apple AR headset first, glasses 2nd

It's not clear why P2 testing has been delayed, though we can probably expect more situations similar this over the next few years. Afterward all, Apple Glasses sound like a large bargain, and Apple tree wouldn't be doing itself any favors by rushing product and releasing something that doesn't live up to expectations.

But at least we accept the Apple VR and mixed reality headset on the manner. Unlike Apple Spectacles, this ane is currently rumored to be arriving in mid-2022. While the headset is still an enclosed VR-way device, rather than an open pair of glasses, it is however said to offering see-through augmented reality capabilities. So it should go along people occupied until Apple Glasses are ready to go.

Which is kind of the point, actually. Word is that Apple knows a device can live or die on its app support, and the mixed reality headset is designed to get developers (and to a bottom extent users) prepare for the launch of Apple Glasses. So while the headset is reportedly going to be priced out of achieve of almost people, its launch has a very specific purpose.

Tim Cook has already confirmed Apple has long-term ambitions for AR, and information technology's not probable to take whatever risks releasing sub-par products. And so the next big thing from Apple just may have to wait until it'due south in good enough shape for the masses.

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Tom is the Tom'south Guide'due south Automotive Editor, which means he tin can normally be constitute knee deep in stats the latest and best electric cars, or checking out some sort of driving gadget. It's long way from his days equally editor of Gizmodo UK, when pretty much everything was on the table. He'due south usually constitute trying to squeeze another giant Lego set onto the shelf, draining very large cups of coffee, or complaining that Ikea won't permit him purchase the stuff he really needs online.