Apple VR headset could weigh less than the AirPods Max
Including the case, of course…
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The much-rumoredApple VR / mixed reality headsetcould weigh as little as 150 grams, according to respectedAppleanalyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggested as much in a research note seen by9to5Mac.
This would fill a significant gap in the virtual reality market, with competing VR headsets typically being far more bulky in terms of weight and form factor. For example, theOculus Quest 2weighs around 503 grams, while theValve Indexclocks in at a very chunky 809 grams.
The supposed weight of Apple’s mixed reality headset would allow the device to be worn comfortably for much longer periods of time. In fact, it’s more in line with the weight of a smartphone - theiPhone 12, for example, weighs roughly 164 grams.
Light as a feather
Creating a device that packs in both augmented and virtual reality tech while using such lightweight materials likely presents a major challenge for Apple, so much so that Kuo mentions supply issues could present themselves. According to Kuo, this would push back the rumored 2022 release date.
As for the cost of Apple’s mixed reality headset, Kuo believes the devicewill cost as much as $1000, but other analysts think it would cost up to $3000 based on the rumored specs, which include ultra-short focal length lenses and a pair ofSony-developed micro-OLEDdisplays.
The ultra lightweight form factor of Apple’s mixed reality headset might seem a little hard to believe given the rumored specs of the device, but it’s not unprecedented for the tech giant. Apple has always been on point with providing devices with relatively light builds.
Apple’s Air lineup of products, for example, specialize in lightweight form factors, including theMacbook Airwhich weighs 1.27kg, and theiPad Airclocking in at just under 470g. When looking at these comparatively lighter weights to its competition, the rumored 150g weight of Apple’s mixed reality headset might not seem all that farfetched, after all.
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Rhys is TRG’s Hardware Editor, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Particularly passionate about high-quality third-party controllers and headsets, as well as the latest and greatest in fight sticks and VR, Rhys strives to provide easy-to-read, informative coverage on gaming hardware of all kinds. As for the games themselves, Rhys is especially keen on fighting and racing games, as well as soulslikes and RPGs.
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