The most recent update has removed the recent references to the “xrOS” and “RealityOS” Apple headsets that were discovered in the Apple Devices Windows app.
The Apple Devices app replaces iTunes for Windows | Image: Apple
- The “xrOS” and “RealityOS” Apple headset referebces are no longer present in the preview version of the Apple Devices app for Windows 11.
- “xrOS” refers to the “Extended reality operating system” and “RealityOS” was how Apple internally called the software while it was being developed.
- The move is unusual as it signals that Apple was aware that these references were solid proof that its rumored AR/VR headset could be around the corner.
The Apple Devices app no longer makes any mentions to Apple headsets.
Apple published Windows 11 samples of its Music, Video, and Devices apps on the Microsoft Store in January 2023. Apple’s latest method for syncing its devices with Windows computers, which replaces iTunes, is the Windows Devices app.
Apple has since removed these references from the most recent update when code mining turned apparent references to its headsets (“xrOS” and “RealityOS”) in the app.
This is one another unmistakable proof that Apple was not happy with the initial finding. Apple removed references to “xrOS” and “RealityOS” from the app, but there is no AR/VR headset in development, so why would they do that?
The Cupertino business previously registered the names “Reality OS,” “Reality One,” “Reality Pro,” “Reality Processor,” and “xrOS” as trademarks, strongly suggesting that an announcement may be forthcoming.
Mac-level power and an 8K viewport
Apple’s headset will be a major product launch | Image: Ahmed Chenni/Freelancer.com
Over the past seven years, the headset has been under development. The accessory was initially scheduled to release in 2021 and subsequently in 2022. Now, all indications point to the headgear being debuted at WWDC, which takes place from June 5 to June 9.
It’s rumored that Apple provided headset prototypes to developers so they could create augmented reality applications that will be sold through a special App Store. At WWDC, Apple should also provide more information about the xrOS platform and formally launch APIs and tools for all developers.
The Apple headgear will cost about $3,000 and go on sale somewhere in the fall of 2023 or closer to the end. The accessory should include a special Mac-level chip made using TSMC’s 3nm process, eye and hand tracking cameras, two micro-OLED 4K displays for an 8K display area, and other cutting-edge technology.
For seamless transitioning between the virtual and augmented reality worlds, it should include a dial akin to the Digital Crown. It should also have a special charging port built into an external battery pack. The device should be able to run the current iPad apps available on the App Store in addition to AR/VR apps created expressly for the headset.