Apple's mixed-reality headset might use a magnetic cable for its external power supply

This power bank might be what the Apple mixed-reality headset's power supply will look like (Photo: Apple)

Apple's rumoured mixed-reality headset is expected at WWDC 2023. And we're getting more details ahead of its launch. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman shared more about the external power supply the headset comes with. The power supply is offloaded from the headset because it'll help prevent overheating and make it lighter. Gurman reports the "Reality Pro/Reality One" headset will have two ports: a USB-C interface for data transfers and a "new proprietary charging connector." It features a round tip that magnetically attaches to the headset. You would supposedly need to rotate it to lock the cable in place. From this description, it looks like it's reminiscent of the MagSafe power port. 

The power supply will reportedly be the size of an iPhone and look similar to Apple's MagSafe Battery Pack. It can reportedly power the headset for up to two hours on a single charge. You will recharge it via a USB-C cable connected to a MacBook Pro power adapter. Gurman believes Apple will offer an option to buy additional packs to extend its battery life.

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Apple's augmented reality glasses are shelved for now

For now, augmented reality tech in Apple products is limited to devices like the iPad and iPhone

Apple's rumoured augmented reality glasses will not come out anytime soon. Bloomberg reports that the project has been on hold indefinitely. It was supposed to follow up another rumoured device, the high-end mixed reality headset expected later this year. The company has supposedly faced "technical challenges" in developing these glasses. So, Apple is supposedly shifting its focus on developing the mixed reality headset.

The one expected to launch this year would supposedly cost around US$,3000 with dedicated VR hardware and a desktop-like M2 CPU like those in the new MacBook Pro and Mac mini. But then Apple is supposedly working on a more affordable option with iPhone-like hardware coming in 2024 or 2025 with a starting price closer to US$1,500.

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LG Display is reportedly prepping work for Apple's 2nd-gen mixed reality headset

Concept render based on purported leaked information (Ian Zelbo)

While Apple's first-generation mixed reality headset hasn't launched yet, LG Display is reportedly preparing to supply micro OLED display panels for the next-generation model. The company is believed to be ordering deposition equipment for micro-OLED displays from Sunic System. The company supposedly plans to use the equipment to produce the displays for the headset. 

It's believed to be part of the supply chain for the upcoming headset, but it's not expected to supply the main screen. Sony is reportedly supplying that. LG's rumoured to be providing the regular OLED display panels for the outer indicator screen. For the next-generation headset, LG is supposedly hoping to take the orders from Sony. It could be a wise move for Apple, given that Sony indirectly competes with Apple thanks to its PlayStation VR headsets.

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