We have heard rumors that Apple may be launching its next VR/AR headset with software called xrOS, a custom-built Apple operating system designed for virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality software. And Apple may have begun trademarking a similar name in advance of the product expected to be announced at WWDC in 2023.

A Delaware-based shell company called Deep Dive LLC has filed for the "xrProOS" trademark worldwide; on May 18, the company filed in Argentina, Turkey, the Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, and the UK.

According to MacRumors, the first xrProOS trademark was filed in Jamaica on April 27. The site notes that this is usually the first country in which Apple applies for a trademark, as the trademark is not stored in a searchable online database. This means that it can be kept secret for a little longer, and Apple really likes to keep future announcements under wraps.

It is likely that Apple is the company behind these applications, but it is unclear what xrProOS is.

So far, rumors indicate that xrOS is the name of the software in question; Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has said as much, and he is typically spot-on with this kind of insight, especially this close to the launch event. Furthermore, the reference to "xrProOS" also suggests the existence of an "xrOS" other than Pro.

Several past trademarks suggest that Apple may call the headset "Reality Pro" along with possible options such as "Reality One," "Reality Processor," "Optica," and "Deep Screen" The company has indicated that it may call the software xrProOS. Calling the software xrProOS may be related to its name.

xrProOs could be a "professional" version of the software, designed for corporate or business use rather than consumer use. Alternatively, it is possible that Apple does not intend to release anything called xrProOS and that these trademarks merely cover its foundation. Apple does not distinguish between business and personal use in its other products, and it would be odd to start doing so with a mixed reality headset instead of a Mac or iPhone.

There is no way to know that now, and we will likely have to wait until the WWDC keynote on June 5 to learn more about the headset and its software; for the latest news and rumors about Apple's VR/AR headset, visit the Apple VR/AR headset hub, WWDC 2023 hub for other information Apple is expected to announce at WWDC.