Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset reportedly will use an external battery pack with a new type of proprietary magnetic connector. The wearer will keep the external battery in their pocket while using the headset.
It’s just one more way Apple’s as-yet-unannounced headset will differ from the competition.
Apple’s AR/VR headset external battery pack will use a magnetic connector
Most AR/VR headsets available today feature a built-in battery. However, by keeping the power source separate, Apple can keep the headset’s weight in check. This should make the device more comfortable to wear, especially during long sessions.
In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman says the external battery will look like Apple’s MagSafe Battery Pack. A cable with a round tip apparently will attach magnetically to the battery. To prevent the propietary connector from falling out, it needs to be locked in with a clockwise rotation.
On the other end, the cable attaches to the battery pack and reportedly won’t be removable. The external battery pack should have enough juice to power the headset for about two hours. It is seemingly the size of an iPhone, albeit thicker.
Aside from the new proprietary charging port, Apple’s AR/VR headset reportedly will feature a USB-C port for data handling. Previous rumors suggest the AR headset could feature two 4K displays and an M2 chip.
While the battery pack will connect to the headset using a proprietary connector, it will charge over USB-C. Apple may sell additional battery packs directly to consumers so they can quickly swap them out with limited downtime.
Expect the Apple AR/VR headset at WWDC23
Apple’s AR/VR headset likely will debut at WWDC23. A recent report indicated the company will offer an array of apps on the headset, including Safari, Mail, Messages and more. In Sunday’s newsletter, Gurman said Apple is working on a new Wellness headset app for guided meditation. The headset reportedly will run existing third-party iPad apps as well.
