Towards the end of 2021 we reported that Apple plans to launch its first AR headset in Q4 2022, powered by dual 4K OLED microdisplays, produced by Sony
According to Ross Young from DSSC, Apple first headset will actually be a VR headset, that uses a foveated display system. The headset will feature three displays - two 4K microLEDs (indeed produced by Sony) and one larger AMOLED display.
A foveated display optically combines a microdisplay over a larger display - to achieve high angular resolution in a small area in the center of the display. Such designs have been used before, for example in the 2019 Varjo VR-1 headset which interestingly also sported two Sony OLED microdisplays and a larger AMOLED.
Ross Young estimates that Apple's headset will include at least 15 camera modules, eye-tracking, two processors, see-through AR mode and will cost between $2,000 and $3,000. The headset will focus on gaming, media consumption, and communication.
Apple has been working on AR technologies for many years. In 2020 it was indeed reported in Japan that Apple is working with Sony on its microdisplays. In 2021 it was reported that Apple has teamed up with TSMC for microdisplay production - but it could be that TSMC will be the manufacturing partner, while Sony will provide the OLED technology and knowhow.
Apple could be working with several potential OLED microdisplay makers, as it could be hedging its bets. It was suggested before that eMagin is also working with Apple, and the company has indeed developed a 4K microdisplay.
If you are interested in OLED microdisplays, Sony's and many others are now available at the OLED marketplace. If you want to get a comprehensive overview of the OLED and MicroLED Microdisplay market, consult our market report.
Disclosure: the author of this post holds some shares in eMagin
