Photo via MacRumorsNext

Apple’s mixed reality headset has reportedly been delayed, again

---

Apple's highly anticipated mixed reality headset, rumored to be named "Reality Pro," has hit another delay, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The device, which was originally expected to release in the first half of 2022, was pushed back to a potential spring 2023 launch, but Kuo now says that the headset won't see the light of day until September 2023 at the earliest. Kuo cited "software bugs" as the cause of the delay, though no specific issues were mentioned. Image credit: AppleInsider The headset is expected to run on Apple's own "xrOS" operating system and cost around $3,000. However, shipments of the first-generation headset have been "extremely low," according to Kuo, and Apple's suppliers are reportedly becoming concerned about the lack of progress. Taiwanese manufacturer Pegatron, which has assisted Apple in making iPads and iPhones, is reportedly "gradually withdrawing" from Apple's headset business, passing its AR/MR development teams to Luxshare ICT, a joint venture between electronics manufacturer Luxshare ICT and Pegatron. Image credit: iMore Luxshare ICT is expected to be the leading manufacturing partner for the Apple MR headset, while Foxconn will handle the cheaper sets for a second-generation AR headset expected to debut in 2025. Kuo's sources suggest that the second-generation headset will come in two versions: a more affordable one made by Foxconn and a higher-end model manufactured by Luxshare.

Despite repeated assurances that it is optimistic about AR, Apple is facing increasing hesitancy from its suppliers. Kuo asked, "Despite repeatedly stating that it is optimistic about AR, why can it not make suppliers willing to continue cooperating with Apple to develop this product?" Image credit: AppleInsider The delays in the headset's release may be due to software issues, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and Kuo. While the headset's release date has been pushed back repeatedly, Kuo suggests that the saga is starting to feel like a '90s sitcom.

Recommended by the editors:

• No More September iPhones? Apple's Strategy Shift Changes Everything
• MacBook Pro M6 OLED Rumors: Release Date, Price, Features, and More
• iPhone 18 Rumors: Apple Reportedly Testing Under Display Face ID
• Intel Could Finally Return to Apple Computers in 2027
• Foldable iPhone Could Be Apple’s Most Expensive Phone Ever At $2,399

• More From Apple Scoop — America's Favorite Source For Apple News, Rumors & More

Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.

Published to Apple Scoop on 24th February, 2023.