Apple CEO Tim Cook Asked About VR/AR Headsets, Encourages Users to ‘Stay Tuned’

During a recent interview China Daily (via MacRumors), Apple CEO Tim Cook was asked about AR/VR headset innovations. While not outright discussing Apple’s long-rumoured headset that is said to be in development, Cook encouraged those interested to “stay tuned.”

While speaking, Cook offered his excitement for new AR applications and tech. Cook has historically been an advocate for AR and how the space can impact our lives. Cook also endorsed the growing number of ARKit apps on the App Store currently.

“I am incredibly excited about AR as you might know, and the critical thing to any technology including AR is putting humanity at the center of it. And that is what we focus on every day. Right now, as an example, we have over 14,000 ARKit apps in the App Store, which provide AR experiences for millions of people around the world.

I think despite that, we’re still in the very early innings of how this technology will evolve. I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunities we’ve seen in this space and sort of stay tuned and you’ll see what we have to offer.”

Apple has remained quiet on the existence of its AR/VR headset. Thus, Cook’s comments hinting and saying “you’ll see what we have to offer” is very exciting.

In this @ChinaDailyUSA interview, @tim_cook was asked about AR and VR headsets…watch his response…  Reality 🥽 is coming@mingchikuo @Scobleizer @CharlieFink @SkarredGhost @CapStark7 pic.twitter.com/tJz5j9dBVB

— Cæsar (@cesarberardini) June 22, 2022

While nothing has been confirmed by Apple itself, reports indicate that Apple’s mixed reality headset is the first step in a new venture for the company. The AR/VR headset is said to be a premium device, expanding Apple’s catalogue of devices. According to reports, the headset is comprised of 4K micro-OLED displays, and 15 camera modules, wrapped up in a comfortable design. It’s also expected that an M1-equivalent processor will be powering the device by the time it hits the market. Estimated pricing for the headset is said to be around $3,000 USD.

All eyes are on when Apple will reveal the AR/VR headset, with analysts speculating on a January 2023 event. However, Apple won’t be stopping there. Recently, it’s been reported that Apple’s AR glasses, the standalone follow-up to its headset are entering their development phase. Many believe Apple will launch the independent glasses in 2024.