Thread by @alexeheath

Apple plans to release a AR/VR headset in 2022 and a sleeker pair of AR glasses in 2023. The timelines run counter to recent reports that suggest a 2020 ship year. That and more details about Apple's AR hardware efforts here, with @waynema & @nickwingfield theinformation.com/articles/apple…

@waynema @nickwingfield Execs discussed the roadmap for the AR devices during an October meeting at the Steve Jobs Theater on Apple's campus. Sources said it's highly unusual for so many employees to be briefed about such secretive projects (though they were made to put tape over there phone cameras).

@waynema @nickwingfield Here's some of what we know:
- There are two Apple AR devices in the works: a mixed reality headset that looks somewhat like Facebook's Oculus Quest, & more futuristic AR glasses.
- Apple plans to reach out to developers in 2021 to encourage them to build apps for the headset.

@waynema @nickwingfield For the AR/VR headset, Apple plans for the device to have an ultra high-res display, the ability to detect people in the field of vision, and the ability to map the surfaces/edges of a room. Apple wants the device to be more lightweight and easy to wear than Facebook's Oculus.

@waynema @nickwingfield The AR glasses are in the earlier stages of development, but Apple is working on lenses that darken when the wearer is using AR, a way of letting others know the wearer is distracted. They are meant to be worn all day, & execs think they could replace iPhones in roughly a decade.

@waynema @nickwingfield One more thing I want to call out towards the end of the story: Snap is developing a 4th gen version of its Spectacles camera glasses, codenamed Hermosa, with smart lenses capable of showing AR effects. Facebook already working on similar hardware too.

The AR wars are on!