It sounds like Apple is going to have a big 2020 ahead of it, if an analyst’s predictions are anything to go on.
According to a new note from Apple industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF Securities (via 9to5Mac), Apple is preparing to release the iPhone SE 2, a new iPad Pro with a 3D sensor for better AR support, a new MacBook equipped with a scissor-switch keyboard, and the long-rumoured augmented reality headset all in the first half of 2020.
Kuo is predicting that the iPhone SE 2 will arrive in the first quarter of 2020. Kuo has previously said the new handset will be similar in form factor and specs to the iPhone 8, but boasting an A13 chip and 3GB of RAM.
Alongside the launch of the iPhone SE 2, Apple will reportedly update its iPad Pro lineup as well. Kuo claimed that the new devices will have a rear-facing 3D time-of-flight sensor, which is reminiscent of the TrueDepth camera system on the iPhone and iPad, to improve the apps employing augmented-reality.
A time-of-flight camera would use laser/LED to accurately measure a room by timing how long it takes for light to bounce off objects, improving picture quality and the AR experience.
The well-respected analyst also shared his predicted schedule for Apple’s MacBook Lineup revamp. Kuo says that after the much-expected 16-inch MacBook Pro launches, Apple will switch other 2020 Macs over to a scissor mechanism keyboard, replacing the current butterfly mechanism. This should result in more durable keyboards, less prone to failure for small debris in the keyboard.
Kuo says the refreshed MacBook models should make an appearance in the second quarter of 2020.
Finally, Kuo says the Cupertino company will launch its long-rumoured AR headset in the second quarter of 2020. Unlike Microsoft HoloLens, which is a standalone AR headset, Apple will sell its AR headset as an accessory to iPhone and iPad, predicts Kuo. Most of the computing required for the AR headset will be done on iPhone or iPad and the data will be transferred to AR headset for immersive experiences.
