Apple’s rumoured ‘Reality Pro’ headset to show full-body avatars on FaceTime

Apple’s long-anticipated mixed reality headset is said to be a standalone device with an interface similar to that of iPhone and iPad, with full-body FaceTime avatars. The key selling point for the headset could be Apple’s approach to hand and eye tracking.

The device is said to be having sensors that can follow wearers’ eyes and several external cameras that can monitor hand movements. Users would be able to select an item by looking at it and then squeezing their thumb and index finger to carry out that action.

It is expected that there will be health-tracking features and the option to install third-party apps. Virtual reality video is said to be a focus, with the company adding support for Apple TV+ content. It is said that Apple has held talks with Disney, Dolby and other media partners regarding VR content, and that there will be the option to watch video on virtual screens in environments like space or a desert.

The device is expected to support virtual reality and augmented reality, with the ability to switch between the two modes using a Watch-like digital crown. Meta’s latest headset, the Quest Pro, offers full-color passthrough for AR use and it's expected that Apple will offer a similar function. Users might need to wear AirPods or other supported headphones for spatial audio if they want to be fully immersed. It is claimed that Apple will offer custom lenses that sit within the headset’s enclosure, which could make it more comfortable to use.