The world of virtual reality (VR) has come a long way. NowadaysVR devices are becoming more advanced and accessible, which opens up new possibilities for games, education and communication. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the future for virtual reality headsets looks brighter than ever.
One of the key trends driving the development of this technology is the growing demand for immersive experiences. Users want to be fully immersed in the virtual world and they want to be able to interact with it naturally and intuitively.
This industry today is full of rumors and speculation about upcoming product releases from major companies like Apple, Samsung and a troubled Goal. In recent times, there have been clues about these companies working on projects related to the virtual reality.
While consumers eagerly await updates on these products, it remains to be seen. when will the firms make their work in these fields known and if Meta is finally completely ousted in a field in which it seemed like the king.
Apple and virtual reality: a never ending story
According to leaker Mark Gurman, who specializes in Apple, the company has been investigating XR (extended reality) glasses for about eight years without launching a single device. Originally, the product developed under the codename N301 should have been released in 2022. Now, According to sources, it probably won’t be until 2024.
However, this and other trusted leakers have made similar claims in the past. Only Manzana knows if he device will it be released finally or when.
The reality is that mixed reality technology, where they are focusing, is still in its infancy and is not a serious alternative at the moment, as Meta Quest Pro shows. As such, the market potential is small compared to the Apple’s current markets, so the device is likely to be marketed but at an exorbitant price. According to rumors, it could cost between $2,000 and $3,000.
Although Apple’s first AR/VR (mixed reality) headset is expected to cost quite a bit, renowned experts are already saying that Apple is developing cheaper models, possibly to ship in 2024.
Yes indeed, Apple has a huge advantage over Meta: “it has the most profitable smartphone business behind it and dominates its value chain from the operating system to its own chips and hardware design”explains Javier López, Manager and Developer of Mixed Reality, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality projects.
Samsung enters the game with everything
Last month, Samsung announced its collaboration with Qualcomm and Google to develop a mixed reality (AR/VR) headset. While there is limited information available on that device, a recent US trademark application by the tech giant suggests the product may be called ‘Galaxy Glasses’.
The ‘Galaxy Glasses’ will reportedly combine augmented and virtual reality technologies to bring a top immersive experience to users. This will allow users to interact with virtual objects in the real world and overlay digital information on their environment.
“Samsung’s strategy is that it apparently appears to be preparing for Apple’s potential entry into the market. Samsung is initiating partnerships with global companies and doesn’t want to be left behind.”adds the expert.
Meta has a big head start
While Apple has been doing research in the lab for many years, Meta is already working on more virtual reality headsets and a 2023 release is anticipated which looks increasingly likely for Meta Quest 3. While Zuckerberg doesn’t mention the Quest 3 explicitly for release this year, the reference to a consumer device is telling and could be this new version.
Meta usually presents new glasses in the fall, along with its annual Connect event, so the Quest 3 could be considered for Connect 2023. As for the price, it is expected to be around €300 (like the Meta Quest 2) and the €500. “People will look back a decade from now and talk about the importance of the work that is being done here”explained Mark Zuckerberg.
Augmented reality glasses known by the development name Nazare will also go on sale in 2024, along with the cheaper Hypernova smart glasses and a differential electromyography bracelet that would allow users to control them with their thoughts (it remains to be seen how this works).
Then a lighter version of the augmented reality headset could arrive in 2026, and the third revision in 2028. By the end of the decade, the VR market should be full of Meta options and highly advanced models.
This market experience and the app ecosystem that Meta has built over decades is invaluable and is one of the greatest assets Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has.
“To push the product out of its niche, Apple needs to drive integration into existing ecosystems and rapidly improve the technology year after year. Apple’s biggest mistake would be to underestimate Meta”explains Javier Lopez.
In general, The future of virtual reality headsets and goggles looks bright. As technology continues to advance, the potential benefits of virtual reality technology will continue to increase and can only be expected to continue to grow and evolve in the years to come.
