Apple mixed-reality headset’s WWDC debut uncertain as Apple delays mass production, says Kuo
Apple’s long-awaited mixed-reality headset has once again been delayed, according to a tweet by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
The device, which was expected to make an appearance at this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), may now not be released until the middle to end of the third quarter of 2023.
Because Apple isn't very optimistic about the AR/MR headset announcement recreating the astounding "iPhone moment," the mass production schedule for assembly has been pushed back by another 1-2 months to mid-to-late 3Q23. The delay also adds uncertainty to whether the new device…
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) March 30, 2023
Kuo also expressed uncertainty about whether the headset will make an appearance at WWDC 2023 as previously expected.
The delay is reportedly due to Apple’s concerns about the headset’s potential to create an “iPhone moment.”
The company has postponed the production schedule, and as a result, shipment forecasts for 2023 have been reduced from half a million units to just 200,000 to 300,000 units.
Kuo believes that the delay adds uncertainty around the headset’s release and is likely to negatively impact its market feedback.
Apple’s concerns about the headset are said to be due to a variety of factors, including its weight, hardware specifications, ecosystem, applications, and high selling price.
Kuo believes that the headset will be priced at $3,000 to $4,000 or even higher, making it unaffordable for many consumers.
The company is reportedly worried about poor market feedback, particularly given the current economic downturn.
The delay in the headset’s release has also led to reports that Apple employees are concerned about its prospects.
A recent report in The New York Times described the headset as “a solution in search of a problem,” suggesting that it may struggle to find a place in the market.
Despite these concerns, Apple recently announced the dates for WWDC 2023, which will be held from June 5 to June 9.
Until now, it was widely expected that the company would unveil the mixed-reality headset at the event. However, the delay in production and uncertainty surrounding its release mean that it remains unclear whether the device will make an appearance at WWDC 2023.
While Apple’s mixed-reality headset has been highly anticipated, the delay in its release and concerns about its prospects have led to increased uncertainty.
The company’s decision to postpone mass production, combined with concerns about its weight, hardware specifications, ecosystem, applications, and high price point, suggest that it may struggle to make an impact in the market.
While WWDC 2023 may still be a potential venue for its release, it remains to be seen whether the device will actually make an appearance at the event.