The first generation Apple VR/mixed reality headset could weigh less than the Oculus Quest 2 when it reportedly arrives within the next 12 months. And another Apple virtual reality/augmented reality headset may appear shortly after that.

This was reported by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo via 9to5Mac, who estimates that the next Apple augmented reality headset currently weighs 300-400 grams. This is significantly lighter than the Quest 2, currently called the Meta Quest 2, which weighs 532 grams. Kuo also claims that the headset will debut in 2022.

Despite this seemingly slim design, the mixed reality headset is suggested to use a "higher-end processor" with similar computing power to the Apple M1 chip, at least according to previous Kuo reports. Also, dual 4K micro-LED displays, Wi-Fi 6E support, 15 optical modules, eye tracking, and more are expected to be packed into this allegedly lightweight design.

Kuo's report follows that of Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a regular and reliable Apple informant, who stated that Apple's headset would focus on gaming, media consumption, and communication.

Kuo predicted that the first generation of Apple headsets will sell between 2.5 million and 3.5 million units through 2023. As such, Kuo claims that Apple is already hard at work on an updated design for the Mixed Reality headset, possibly based on this projected uptake of Cupertino's first model.

The second-generation headset is expected to be significantly lighter, feature an updated industrial design, a new battery management system, and a faster processor than the previous model. According to Kuo, this Apple headset will debut in late 2024 and could sell around 10 million units.

This would be a massive accomplishment considering that Meta, which currently dominates the VR market with its Quest 2, just surpassed 10 million units shipped this past November.

It is even more remarkable considering that the first iteration of Apple's VR headset is rumored to cost $1,000; the Meta Quest 2 is priced at $300, with refurbished units selling for $200.

Bold claims are being made here, given that the world of virtual and mixed reality is an important but niche one. But Apple will have a busy next 12 months. Of course, Google is also reportedly working on its own AR headset and operating system, so we will have to wait and see how Google reacts.