We have talked extensively about Apple’s virtual reality and augmented reality glasses. Since their announcement, the glasses have been a topic of conversation in this magazine and rightfully so: they are the most advanced technological gadget we have ever seen in the world of VR/AR.
And after talking about all the technologies, possible variants, prices and release dates, today we have almost confirmation of this last point, possibly the most important for potential buyers.
Well, according to Bloomberg, Apple glasses would be released for sale in two months. More specifically, in February 2024. That’s too soon to save up the $3,499 they cost, right?
An imminent release for a still green technology
According to insider Mark Gurman, from Bloomberg, everything points to the device being launched in February. And he says we shouldn’t expect another launch event, which is understandable for a $3,499 device that has a very small market niche.
But bringing this to market is a complex task that involves preparing Apple Store employees to guide new users, adjusting the fit, and dealing with prescription lens options.
The launch of Apple’s first new hardware platform in years includes new software with visionOS, and Gurman is already pointing to its next version, which should arrive by the end of 2024 along with the usual Mac and iPhone software updates.
Another element is the recent release of iOS 17.2, which allows the iPhone 15 Pro to capture spatial videos encoded in 3D with a resolution of 1080p at 30 frames per second, and you will need headphones to play them back in full detail.
Developers are also being warned about the release, with a note sent today telling them to “get ready”, which could include software specifically made for use in virtual and mixed reality environments or the iPad and iPhone apps that the Vision Pro will also have access to.
Of course, any setback could cause a delay, but Gurman’s report states that production in China has been running “at full speed” for weeks, with plans to have the units ready for sale by the end of January before their arrival in stores.
