Apple Headset to Offer Gaming, Fitness, Sports, and Collaboration Features [Report]

Apple has been working on new software for its upcoming mixed reality headset that will include gaming, fitness, and collaboration tools, new versions of existing iPad features, and services for watching sports, according to a Bloomberg report.

A big part of the effort is adapting iPad apps for the new headset, which blends virtual and augmented reality. Users will be able to access millions of existing apps from third-party developers via the new 3D interface, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans are still under wraps. The push will include optimized versions of the Safari web browser and Apple's services for calendars, contacts, files, home control, mail, maps, messaging, notes, photos and reminders, as well as its music, news, stocks and weather apps. There also will be a version of the FaceTime conferencing service and Apple's TV app. The features will look similar to their iPad counterparts.

Additional apps include a version of Apple Books for reading in virtual reality, a camera app to take photos, a meditation app that features calming graphics, sounds, and voiceovers, a version of Fitness+ that will let users exercise with an instructor in VR, and a Freeform collaboration app that lets users work on virtual whiteboards together. As expected, FaceTime will get virtual meeting rooms with 3D versions of participants.


Apple will purportedly pitch the headset as both a method of consuming content and creating content. It hopes that eventually the platform could replace the iPhone.

Bloomberg says the headset will feature a dial similar to the digital crown found on the Apple Watch. The dial will be used to switch between virtual reality and augmented reality. Apple will let you run multiple apps at the same time, floating within the interface. The apps will be able to remember your physical location. For example, if you launch an app in the kitchen, then leave, the app would reappear when you return.

It's said that the home screen interface will look similar to iPad, and will have a control center for quick adjustment of settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and volume. Biometric eye scanning will be used to authorize access to the headset and Siri can be used for voice control.

Wearers will be able to operate the headset using eye and hand gestures. It can determine where people are looking and then users can pinch their fingers to select items and move through menus. The device will feature an in-air virtual keyboard but can also connect to an actual keyboard for improved productivity.


Apple is widely expected to unveil its mixed reality headset at WWDC 2023 in June. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for updates.

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