Apple seemingly focused on mixed reality in 2023

Apple is apparently focusing its efforts on bringing its mixed-reality headset to market this year.

That’s the forecast from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, who rarely misses in his Apple analysis. He says that whereas the mixed-reality headset will launch later this year, don’t expect many different Apple launches.

The refocusing to ship the headset will imply that different Apple devices will get marginal upgrades this year. It additionally means that Apple’s different working systems could see fewer new options added.

Gurman reckons that minor efficiency upgrades are the one issues most Apple devices will get. That includes M2 Pro and M2 Max chips for the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.

That means no main Apple Watch upgrades, possibly no new AirPods, Apple TV, or iPad. Some of those merchandise could see chip upgrades, however.

The bigger HomePod is nonetheless coming this year, however don’t expect it to make huge waves.

The solely device that appears to get main upgrades this year would be the iPhone.

Apple’s mixed actuality headset is nearly here

It takes time, resources, and smarts to bring a brand new device to the market. Apple’s upcoming mixed-reality headset has already been in development for seven years.

It was initially slated to launch in 2019 and has slipped previous estimated launch dates. Gurman reports that some “high-profile developers” have already got the ultimate hardware to work on creating third-party apps.

Now it’s on track for an unveiling on the annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. That will additionally include the brand new working system, xrOS.

The push to get xrOS prepared for launch has meant that macOS 14, iOS, and iPadOS options have been delayed. Apple doesn’t launch in-progress particulars on software, however expect fewer options to reach within the fall.

In different news, Gurman notes that battery replacement prices for Apple devices have increased. That could be for any variety of provide chain reasons, so expect to pay between $20 and $50 extra if you want to replace one.