Apple VR headset is said to have entered trial production and is expected to be released in 2022

Although rumors about Apple's VR headset have been circulating for years, the company has yet to release any concrete information. However, it has been reported recently that Apple's VR headset has entered the trial production phase with TSMC and will be released in 2022. Apple is said to use a special CMOS sensor, which is usually quite space-consuming.

The Information pointed out that the sensor is used to collect high-resolution image data of the user's surroundings and used for augmented reality (AR) experience. However, it is reported that TSMC is still working hard to overcome the problem of low chip yield.

In addition, the revelation confirmed a long-standing rumor that the Apple VR headset is a tethered device that requires the computing power of an iPhone/iPad to unlock most of the functional experience, but can be paired and connected wirelessly.

The benefit of doing so is that it can further reduce the complexity of Apple's VR headset. The built-in chipset reportedly lacks some advanced technologies on modern iPhones, such as the neural engine.

It is said that Apple has completed most of the work including chipset design, the physical design of two other Apple-developed chips, and the development of image sensors and display drivers in 2020, and is currently in trial production.

Leaked reports say the Apple VR headset will have an 8K resolution screen, advanced eye tracking, a hybrid ultra-short focal length Fresnel lens made of plastic, and weigh less than 150 grams.

Of the total 15 camera modules, eight are dedicated to core AR/VR experiences, while the rest will be used for unspecified biometric features.

Earlier this year, rumors circulated that Apple was planning to release an Apple VR headset sometime this year. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman noted:

However, according to the latest leaks, the device will be provided to developers first and then put on the consumer market. After releasing the AR/VR headset in 2022, the company is expected to launch new products that support pure AR experience in 2023.