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Apple Inc. is expected to release its first mixed-reality headset later this year, but the release of its highly anticipated follow-up product, augmented-reality glasses, has been postponed, according to a new report.
Bloomberg News reported Tuesday night that the lightweight AR glasses faced technical challenges, and will be delayed indefinitely and work on it pared back. Instead, Apple plans to release a lower-cost mixed-reality headset in 2024 or 2025, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with Apple’s plans.
The mixed-reality headset still on track for 2023 is expected to cost about $3,000, with the next version potentially priced around $1,500, Bloomberg reported. According to the report, Apple’s MR headset is less complicated to build — though bulkier — than an AR device that resembles normal eyeglasses.
While virtual reality is completely immersive, augmented reality overlays virtual information, such as images, text and animation, over the real world. Mixed reality mixes real-world and digital elements, allowing users to interact in a virtual environment.
Earlier Tuesday, Apple announced upgrades to its MacBook Pro line of laptops and a new version of the Mac mini.
Apple shares
AAPL,
are down about 21% over the past 12 months, compared to a decline of about 6% for the Dow Jones Industrial Average
DJIA,
of which it is a component.
