TF Securities analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo states that Apple’s new AR/VR headset will feature Wi-Fi 6E support for faster performance, and low latency which are significant factors of AR/VR devices.
In his previous note to investors, Kuo pushed his launch time for Apple’s upcoming mixed reality AR/VR headset from Q2, 2022 to late 2022 or early 2023 because the company is trying to perfect the device’s design and working to introduce a more diverse software and services to offer more than just gaming apps in order and gain a competitive edge over rival products. He said that the new AR/VR headset will go into mass production in Q4, 2022.
Apple to introduce Wi-Fi 6/6E support on AR/VR headset to reduce dependence on a wired connection with a computer or other devices
Wi-Fi Alliance introduced the new Wi-Fi 6E with 6 GHz band which delivers higher performance, lower latency, and faster data rates. The next-generation connectivity Wi-Fi 6E will utilize 6 GHz to deliver much anticipated augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) use cases for consumer, enterprise, and industrial environments,” said WiFi Alliance.
In his latest note to investors, Kuo explains that mixed-reality AR/VR headsets require a wired connection with a computer to work. Therefore, Apple is expected to feature Wi-Fi 6/6E support to offer faster wireless connection with low latency and reduce the need for a computer or any other device. At the time of announcement of Wi-Fi 6/6E, Jayanthi Srinivasan, Director of Product Management, Cisco Meraki said:
“Wi-Fi has changed the world, and we are excited to work with Wi-Fi Alliance to ensure Wi-Fi will continue changing the world. Wi-Fi 6’s growth into the 6 GHz spectrum is a game changer for two reasons – the availability of the additional channels and the ability to finally use 160Mhz for high bandwidth applications like AR and VR; this provides enormous opportunities to build new applications and experiences for both consumers and businesses. By standardizing on Wi-Fi 6E, Cisco Meraki and others in the industry can begin delivering next-generation wireless experiences to customers.”
Kuo also mentioned that other AR/VR companies like Meta (former Facebook) and Sony are will introduce new AR/VR devices with built-in Wi-Fi 6/6E in 2022, along with Apple.
