Apple's mixed reality headset would use iris scanning for payments and logins
Apple's long-talked-about AR/VR headset may have some additional tricks. The Information sources claim that mixed reality hardware will use iris scanning to log in and make payments. This would make it easier to buy apps and could even simplify multi-user support, according to tipsters. Apple declined to comment, but it reportedly bought eye-tracking goggle maker SensoMotorics in 2017 with the headset in mind. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also said in 2021 that Primax would provide the eye tracking modules and they support iris detection.
The headset might also have a few advantages over Meta's recently announced Quest Pro. Two of the previously claimed 14 cameras will supposedly track your legs, giving it an edge in full-body tracking over the 10-camera Meta device (which doesn't have leg-focused cameras). The goggle-like design's aluminum, fabric, and glass combination is also said to be lighter than the 1.6-pound Quest Pro, though tipsters haven't specified by how much.
Past rumors have also hinted at other high-end features, including super high-resolution displays, detailed facial expression tracking, and even a way to magnetically clip on custom prescription lenses. The headset may be powered by the M2 chip on recent Macs, but may use a low display refresh rate to extend battery life at the expense of a more natural experience.
Many reported leaks have indicated a headphone launch sometime in 2023. The question is whether or not a final product will be accessible. More than one rumor has floated a price as high as $3,000. You might get more features than the $1,500 Quest Pro, but you'd be paying for those too. Even more so than with Meta's hardware, that price could limit the initial audience for the Apple headset to developers and other professional creators.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
Apple's long-talked-about AR/VR headset may have some additional tricks. The Information sources claim that mixed reality hardware will use iris scanning to log in and make payments. This would make it easier to buy apps and could even simplify multi-user support, according to tipsters. Apple declined to comment, but it reportedly bought eye-tracking goggle maker SensoMotorics in 2017 with the headset in mind. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also said in 2021 that Primax would provide the eye tracking modules and they support iris detection.
The headset might also have a few advantages over Meta's recently announced Quest Pro. Two of the previously claimed 14 cameras will supposedly track your legs, giving it an edge in full-body tracking over the 10-camera Meta device (which doesn't have leg-focused cameras). The goggle-like design's aluminum, fabric, and glass combination is also said to be lighter than the 1.6-pound Quest Pro, though tipsters haven't specified by how much.
Past rumors have also hinted at other high-end features, including super high-resolution displays, detailed facial expression tracking, and even a way to magnetically clip on custom prescription lenses. The headset may be powered by the M2 chip on recent Macs, but may use a low display refresh rate to extend battery life at the expense of a more natural experience.
Many reported leaks have indicated a headphone launch sometime in 2023. The question is whether or not a final product will be accessible. More than one rumor has floated a price as high as $3,000. You might get more features than the $1,500 Quest Pro, but you'd be paying for those too. Even more so than with Meta's hardware, that price could limit the initial audience for the Apple headset to developers and other professional creators.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
What's Your Reaction?
