Virtual Reality headsets are expected to change the landscape of gaming entirely by introducing a brand new layer of immersion. Oculus and Sony are attempting to make that experience possible with the Oculus VR headset and Project Morpheus respectfully, and now, Apple too has jumped on to the VR headgear bandwagon.
The most valuable company in the world has been granted a patent that it had filed back in 2008 concerning making its own virtual reality headgear. In terms of aesthetics and functionality, Apple's future product bears a striking similarity with Google's Cardboard and Samsung's Gear VR. It will be attached to the owner's iPhone or iPod in order to augment the user's experience in both media and games. In addition, Apple virtual reality headgear will also featuring voice control and hardware buttons to facilitate improved functionality once the headset has been placed on the wearer.
What is even more unique about the product is that it is also equipped with a built in camera, allowing users to start snapping images of the surroundings of their headset. According to PatentlyApple, the headset will be possessing advanced haptics in the earplug area in order to improve sound effects further while the user is watching a movie or playing a mobile application.
While this has not been confirmed by the tech giant, it is possible that Apple will be showcasing a glimpse of its VR functionality in its iOS 9 update. However, it was detailed that the upcoming update will focus more on performance and battery life improvement rather than features so the rumor might get debunked.
The company's first offerings of 2015 will include a smartwatch named the iWatch and the aforementioned iOS update. Both offerings are expected to be showcased at the company's WWDC event.
