Apple has been exploring virtual
reality and augmented reality technologies for more than 10 years based on
patent filings, but with virtual and augmented reality exploding in popularity,
Apple's dabbling may be growing more serious and could lead to an actual
product or feature in the not-too-distant future. Apple is rumored to have a
secret research unit comprising hundreds of employees working on AR and VR,
exploring ways the emerging technologies could be used in future Apple
products. In recent months, VR/AR hiring has ramped up and Apple has acquired
multiple AR/VR companies.
There are dozens of possibilities
for VR/AR technology in Apple products, ranging from augmented reality features
within Maps, Snapchat-style camera filters, and other apps to virtual 3D
interfaces for the iPhone to full-on virtual reality headsets. With products
like the Oculus Rift and Microsoft HoloLens garnering significant interest,
Apple has been inspired to test its own headset. Apple is said to be working on
developing several prototype virtual reality headsets, but little is known
about the company's work beyond the fact that prototypes exist.
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