Apple VR Headset Release: What to Expect in 2026

Apple’s much-anticipated virtual reality (VR) headset is finally moving closer to reality, with recent discoveries in the iMessage app’s developer version hinting at its imminent release. The VR headset, rumored for months, now appears to be more than just speculation, and it might be unveiled alongside next year’s new iOS version.

Apple’s VR headset may be released next year (Image source: Internet)

iMessage Reveals New Features for Apple’s VR Headset

In the latest developer build of the iMessage app, new features related to augmented reality (AR) have surfaced. These include revamped home page views, chat rooms, video clips, and various functionalities, all pointing to Apple’s upcoming head-mounted display devices. Notable features such as message editing, deleting recently sent messages, marking conversations as unread, and collaboration invitations suggest a seamless integration of AR technology within iMessage. The inclusion of these features in iMessage hints that Apple is preparing for a complete transformation of how users interact with messaging and collaboration in the upcoming mixed-reality environment.

What We Can Expect from Apple’s Headset

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s mixed-reality headset is expected to focus on three key areas: gaming, media consumption, and communication. One of the standout features of the device will be its integration with Apple’s popular services such as Memojis and SharePlay. SharePlay, introduced with iOS 16, allows users to synchronize content, such as movies or songs, while engaging in conversations within iMessage. This feature is set to take center stage in Apple’s VR headset experience, offering a collaborative and immersive environment for users.

Introducing the New “rOS” – The Operating System Behind Apple’s VR Headset

If all goes as planned, Apple’s headset will run on a brand-new operating system known as “realityOS” (codenamed “Oak”). Development on realityOS has been ongoing since 2017, with the operating system recently making headlines in App Store upload logs and Apple’s open-source code, confirming its existence. The realityOS system will likely feature versions of many existing Apple applications, and this could lead to significant redesigns of apps like iMessage to optimize the experience for users.

For the headset’s collaboration-focused features to shine, it’s essential for a smooth and intuitive experience in apps like iMessage. This suggests that the platform will undergo a complete overhaul to accommodate the new immersive environment, allowing users to interact with content in fresh, interactive ways.

Apple VR Headset Release: What Does the Future Hold?

With the Apple VR headset release on the horizon, tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the official announcement. The integration of cutting-edge technologies and immersive features promises to revolutionize how users engage with digital content, making the upcoming Apple VR headset release a significant milestone in the tech world.

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