Apple Renames Operating System for Headset to 'xrOS' [Report]

Apple has renamed the operating system for its mixed reality headset to 'xrOS', according to a Bloomberg report. This comes as the company ramps up work on the headset ahead of its debut.

The company plans to introduce the headset as early as next year, along with a dedicated operating system and app store for third-party software, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Internally, the company recently changed the name of the operating system to “xrOS” from “realityOS,” said the people, who asked not to be identified because the project is still under wraps.




While the software for the headset was previously referred to as realityOS, the new 'xr' name stands for "extended reality", a term that covers both augmented and virtual reality. The software will likely offer new versions of core apps like Messages and Maps. Additionally, there will be an SDK that allows third party developers to create their own apps and games, similar to the iPhone.

The headset and its software are being developed inside Apple's Technology Development Group, or TDG, a secretive unit led by Mike Rockwell. The operating system is overseen by Geoff Stahl, a senior engineering manager and nearly 24-year Apple veteran. Sources say Apple wants to create a 3D-based 'mixed-reality world' with the headset offering users virtual collaboration and a VR version of FaceTime.

Notably, Bloomberg has spotted numerous international trademark registrations for xrOS by a shell company named Deep Dive LLC. It's common for Apple to use shell corporations to trademark names without being noticed. The trademark covers classifications that include “head-mounted displays” and devices that provide “virtual reality and augmented reality experiences.”

Apple's first headset will likely cost far more than existing competitors, but offer superior ultra-high resolution screens and several external cameras for AR. It will allegedly feature hand tracking capabilities and run a processor based off the M2 chip.


More details in the full report linked below...

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