Apple CEO Tim Cook said previously that he thought that augmented reality would be bigger than virtual reality and now according to a recent report the company is working on some augmented reality glasses.
The news comes in a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman who has revealed that Apple has been discussing the project with its suppliers.
The glasses may be Apple’s first hardware product targeted directly at AR, one of the people said. Cook has beefed up AR capabilities through acquisitions. In 2013, Apple bought PrimeSense, which developed motion-sensing technology in Microsoft Corp.’s Kinect gaming system. Purchases of software startups in the field, Metaio Inc. and Flyby Media Inc., followed in 2015 and 2016.
Apple are looking for new products as sales of the iPhone have been reducing and the company is looking for new devices that would be popular.
Apple’s Strategic Acquisitions
Apple’s interest in augmented reality is not new. The company has been strategically acquiring firms that specialize in AR technology for several years. For instance, PrimeSense, acquired in 2013, was instrumental in developing the motion-sensing technology used in Microsoft’s Kinect gaming system. This acquisition provided Apple with a solid foundation in motion-sensing technology, which is crucial for AR applications.
In 2015, Apple acquired Metaio Inc., a German company known for its AR software. Metaio’s technology has been used in various applications, from retail to industrial maintenance, and its acquisition signaled Apple’s serious commitment to AR. Following this, in 2016, Apple acquired Flyby Media Inc., a company that developed technology allowing mobile devices to “see” the world around them. These acquisitions have collectively bolstered Apple’s AR capabilities, positioning the company to potentially revolutionize the AR market.
Potential Impact on the Market
The introduction of Apple AR glasses could have a significant impact on the market. Augmented reality has the potential to change how we interact with the world around us. Unlike virtual reality, which immerses users in a completely digital environment, AR overlays digital information onto the real world. This can enhance everyday experiences, from navigation to gaming, and even professional applications like remote assistance and training.
For example, imagine walking through a city with AR glasses that provide real-time information about landmarks, restaurants, and shops as you pass by. In a professional setting, AR glasses could assist engineers by overlaying schematics onto machinery, making complex repairs easier and more efficient. The possibilities are vast and varied, and Apple’s entry into this space could accelerate the development and adoption of AR technology.
Apple’s focus on AR is also a strategic move to diversify its product lineup. With iPhone sales experiencing a slowdown, the company is keen to explore new revenue streams. AR glasses could be a significant addition to Apple’s ecosystem, complementing existing products like the iPhone and Apple Watch. By integrating AR capabilities into its product lineup, Apple can offer a seamless and enhanced user experience.
As soon as we get some more details about Apple’s new AR glasses we will let you guys know, whether they will actually be released remains to be seen.
Source Bloomberg
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