Once again, the leaks are coming in and offering some nifty details as to what to expect from Apple’s forthcoming augmented reality glasses.
Per noted leaker Jon Prosser, Apple intends to call them “Apple Glass,” with the device using a paired iPhone to handle all of its data processing, similar to the Apple Watch’s functionality.
The “Apple Glass” is expected to retail for $499, but a prescription cost would increase the total cost to the user — and sunglasses may not be available at launch. Prosser has stated that he’s seen a prototype with plastic frames, but metal may be used later.
The unit is expected to feature LiDAR integrated into the right-hand side of the frames, though no other cameras were seen in the prototype. A plastic stand will also be included for wireless charging.
Apple’s user interface is called “Starboard,” according to the leak. Information will be displayed on both lenses, and the user interface can be controlled both on, and in front of the device with user gestures.
Prosser indicated that the device will be able to scan proprietary QR codes as well. It’s unknown as to whether the QR codes in question are the ones spotted in an internal build of iOS 14 that was released on Monday.
Apple is believed to have told its engineers it plans for a launch of the Apple Glasses by 2022.
It’s also thought that the unit is highly likely to take advantage of Apple’s existing ARKit framework, as well as borrow from technologies at use elsewhere.
Finally, it’s been suggested that the device will use holographic elements to overlay the augmented reality image, while mounting the main hardware away from the face.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and @jon_prosser