Apple AR/VR headset: The next big thing that will replace the iPhone

As powerful as a Mac with dual 8K displays.

It's looking more and more like Apple's next big thing won't be something that fits in your pocket or a bag. Rather it could be another wearable device. 

Analysts Ming Chi-Kuo said in November that Apple's goal is to replace the ‌iPhone‌ with AR in ten years. Here's everything we know so far about Apple's rumored mixed-reality headset.

2022 Apple headset: Design

While the ultimate goal of Apple's AR project is to produce a pair of fashionable smart glasses, the first version will reportedly be much bigger than that. 

According to reports, the first-generation Apple headset will be an Oculus-style headset with a knit mesh-wrapped body similar to the AirPods Max. It could look something like a sleeker version of Google's Daydream headset, which also had a soft fabric body. A patent application for a head-mounted display unit also detailed several areas of adjustment, meaning comfort will be an area of focus.

However, we don't know much else about the design of Apple's AR device. While Jon Prosser reported that Apple is working on a prototype pair of AR glasses, more recent rumours suggest that a bona fide pair of glasses is likely still years away from production.

2022 Apple headset: Display

As a mixed-reality device, Apple's glasses are rumoured to handle both virtual and augmented reality via a pair of high-resolution 8K screens using eye-tracking technology. The headset will reportedly feature more than a dozen cameras, according to The Information, which will project a real-world view onto the screens as if you were looking through clear glass. It will presumably use either OLED or mini LED and incorporate Apple's Ceramic Shield coating as well.

2022 Apple headset: Processor and specs

According to Ming-Chi Kuo (via Macrumors), Apple's AR headset will have two processors, with the higher-end processor having similar computing power as the M1 for Mac and the secondary chip responsible for sensor-related computing. The sounds like a lot of processing power for a headset, but if the headset needs to power a pair of 8K displays, it will need a hefty chip. Reports also say that it will need to be tethered to an iPhone, much like the original Apple Watch.

Ming-Chi Kuo also reported that the headset will support Wi-Fi 6E, which is also rumoured to come to the iPhone 14. It will also presumably have at least 8GB of RAM and a 256GB hard drive.