Kuo: Second-Generation Apple AR Headset to Launch in 2024 With Lighter Design, Redesigned Battery System, and More

Apple is already working on its second-generation AR headset, which will feature a lighter design, adopt a new battery system, and a faster processor, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said today in an investor note obtained by MacRumors.

apple mixed reality headset mockup feature purple
Apple is widely expected to launch its first-generation AR-focused device in 2022. That device has been previously reported to feature a processor with Mac-level computing power and will be usable independent from an iPhone, according to Kuo.

Highlighting Apple's long-term goals in AR and the "metaverse," Kuo said today that the development of the second generation of the headset is already underway and destined for launch in 2024. It will feature a lighter design compared to the first headset, as well as a new battery system, according to the analyst.

Apple has begun planning for the second-generation AR/MR headset, and the shipment schedule will likely be in 2H24. Improvements for the second generation include the lighter weight, form factor design, battery system, and processor compared to the first model, which will go to mass production in late 4Q22.

In his note today, Kuo also shared some new details about the first generation of Apple's AR headset, including that it will weigh around 300 to 400g and that it will be able to "seamlessly switch between AR and VR to provide an innovative headset experience."

Apple's first AR headset is expected to be a somewhat niche product aimed largely towards developers with a focus on communication, media consumption, and gaming. Apple's AR headset product line could ultimately replace the iPhone in 10 years, according to Kuo.

The first generation of Apple's AR headset is one of multiple new products Apple is expected to announce in 2022, including five new Macs, three new Apple Watches, updates to the ‌iPhone‌ lineup, and more. Catch up on everything we know about Apple's AR headset using our roundup.

Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro
Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Neutral)
Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro

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Top Rated Comments

Schizoid Avatar
50 months ago
I for one am really excited about the second-gen goggles, I really like wearing the ones that aren’t out yet, I use them for pretending I’m in space and walking into lampposts.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TheYayAreaLiving ?️ Avatar
50 months ago
The first generation is not even out yet... We have no idea if the first generation is even launching next year.

I thought it was reported it is set to launch next year?

Mr. Kuo: This might make more sense since Tim Cook may be retiring in the year 2024?
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
UltimateSyn Avatar
50 months ago
LOL! Trust me; the third generation is the one to wait for.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
MayaUser Avatar
50 months ago
In other news ... "Hans Zimmer praises Apple’s Spatial Audio technology ('https://9to5mac.com/2021/12/07/hans-zimmer-praises-apples-spatial-audio-technology-says-jony-ive-gave-him-a-pair-of-headphones-he-worked-on/')"
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Mr. Dee Avatar
50 months ago
I can tell you somebody or a group of leakers within Apple or the supply chain have been fed hot air and they are now likely fired. Apple is on its A game here.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
citysnaps Avatar
50 months ago

Looks bulky and heavy this first gen version. Yeah probably best to wait for the 2nd gen.
Not sure I'd put too much stock in that rendering. It's someone's opinion/guess. That would never fly in the market.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)