Apple’s upcoming mixed reality headset is a hot topic in the world of leaks and rumors, with a big reveal likely coming later this year. Now, a new report suggests that it will feature three screens for your viewing pleasure.
The report was written by industry analysts at Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) and outlines 10 predictions the company has for the display industry in 2022. In the section covering Apple’s upcoming headset, DSCC indicates its belief that the device will integrate three display modules, consisting of two MicroLED panels and one AMOLED display.
This is probably the first time we have heard such a claim. Analysts previously suggested that Apple’s headset would come with two 8K displays (one for each eye) and could use an array of advanced cameras and sensors, but DSCC appears to be the first to predict a three-display setup.
The report claims there are some interesting clues about this possibility. First of all, Sony recently unveiled a 4K MicroLED display with a resolution of around 4,000 PPI (pixels per inch), targeting virtual reality (VR) use. According to DSCC, this display is likely made for Apple headsets. Assuming the headset screen array is 4,000 x 4,000 pixels, the display width could be 1.4 inches, he added. Interestingly, this contradicts previous claims that the display would have a resolution of 3,000 PPI.
So, two MicroLED displays are described. What about AMOLED screens? According to the report, this rarely happens in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) headsets due to their relatively low resolution. However, Apple may use it for peripheral vision where high resolution is less important. For example, this allows you to focus on the content directly in front of you while blurring out surrounding content, creating an immersive all-round experience.
However, this kind of setup would not be cheap, the report added. It claims that using Apple’s headset will save you “thousands of dollars.” This is roughly consistent with a previous report from The Information, which pegged the price at $3,000, but contradicts a recent article by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who said the headset could start at $1,000.
According to DSCC’s report, the first-generation devices are aimed at professionals and developers and will help expand Apple’s AR and VR ecosystem. This includes a high-end CPU and GPU, multiple cameras, and potentially a LiDAR sensor to boot.
The report mixes in some interesting ideas, but also contradicts several previous claims and leaks. This doesn’t mean it’s wrong, but it does indicate how muddy the situation is with Apple headsets. Hopefully we’ll get more information later this year, as Apple is rumored to unveil this device to the world.