Update: Apple's mixed reality headset is surprisingly lightweight, and a second generation headset could arrive in 2024.

We've heard quite a bit about Apple's upcoming mixed reality and VR headset, including various rumors about the headset's design. The latest reports claim that it will in fact be an entertainment device.

Bloomberg's Mark Garman reports in his weekly newsletter, Power On. Apparently, the headset is designed to focus on gaming, media consumption, and communication.

Garman predicts that gaming "should be a strong focus of this machine," given its proprietary app store, multiple processors, fans, and reportedly "extremely high-resolution display." According to Garman, Apple wants to position this headset as "a game developer's dream."

In addition, Garman expects the company to partner with content creators to produce what can be viewed in VR. As for communication, Garman expects to see a VR version of FaceTime, which will also support animoji.

Based on the rumors we have heard about the headset hardware, it all makes sense. The headset should have dual 4K micro-LED displays, Wi-Fi 6E support, 15 optical modules, eye tracking, and more packed into a lightweight design.

In the past we have heard rumors that paint a very different picture. In fact, earlier reports claimed that Apple had no intention of making a mixed reality headset a consumer product. Instead, it was allegedly designed to pave the way for augmented reality Apple Glasses.

The idea was that by having an AR-enabled device, Apple could ensure that developers would have the opportunity to develop augmented reality apps for the launch of Apple Glasses. This was reflected in the rumored price of $1,000 to $3,000.

Gurman's new report does not dismiss this scenario, but its focus on the entertainment aspect suggests that the company is positioning the headset as a consumer device. After all, it is difficult to engage developers and content creators if the audience is small.

However, much of what we think we know about the headset comes from reports like Gurman's, with some speculation and wishful thinking mixed in. Apple has revealed nothing about its plans for wearable AR and VR technology, other than the fact that it is on the agenda. So we're piecing together information from rumors, reports, and Apple's own patents to find out what's going on.

We can only wait and see what happens. According to the latest rumors, the headset could be available in late 2022. Google is also trying to enter the market with its own AR headset and operating system. So expect more information to come in as the months go by.

In the meantime, check out our 2022 Apple predictions for all the products we expect to launch, including the iPhone 14.