Apple AR/VR Headset Shipments Likely Delayed Due To Software Issue

There is great anticipation for Apple’s AR/VR headsets although it remains unclear when they will be made available.

But if the update given by long-time Apple analyst Ming-chi Kuo is to be believed, there could be some delay in seeing the mass shipment of the headsets.

The analyst claims that the release of the Apple headsets may be delayed until the second half of 2023. He points to software-related issues as the reason behind this.

Kuo clarified that the mass shipments of components are still on track and are likely to begin in the first half of next year. But factoring in the assembly angle, the mass shipments of fully assembled headsets may not commence until the second half of next year.

Hence, it is possible that the launch of the Apple AR/VR headsets may not launch until the second half of 2023 even if the Cupertino company ends up announcing its earlier release.

Also, the right timing for the Apple headset would likely be at WWDC 2023 in June. Aside from the headset, it would be an opportune time to announce the SDK for developers to create AR/VR apps for the device.

Kuo previously claimed that Apple had planned to launch the headset at a January media event with mass shipments following in the second quarter of 2023. But given his new update, it remains unclear if the announcement will also be pushed back.

Tied to this, the setback could also have crucial factors for Apple. The delays in the media event and the mass shipment are likely to factor in heavily and potentially hurt sales figures.

Regardless of when they would come out, the Apple headset is expected to be expensive since it is a niche product. Kuo predicts Apple may ship fewer than 500,000 headsets in 2023.