The Iris ID, a combination reality headset, is set to offer iris scanning biometrics capabilities similar to the Face ID, found on modern iPhones and iPads. According to a sources, the Iris ID would allow the user to authenticate payments without entering a password, and would enable seamless user switching.
Apples augmented reality and virtual reality capability device has been in the works for many years, and is expected to be unveiled to the public sometime in 2023.
By leveraging integrated iris biometrics sensors, the Apple headset would reportedly be able to detect who is wearing it by scanning their eyes as it is being put on and automatically logging into the correct user account.
The iris scanning technology will use the same cameras that will allow foveated rendering. This is a trick where the headset will continuously track where the user is looking, to improve performance. However, areas of the scene outside of the users focus will be dynamically rendered in lower resolution. This should not be noticeable to the human being using the product, as the area which they are directly looking will be in sharp focus and highest-quality.
According to Today''s Information reports, the Apple headset will look quite different to the previously announced Meta Quest Pro in terms of physical design. The Quest Pro is similar to that of a plastic visor, but the Apple headset will presumably employ mesh fabrics, aluminium, and glass, making for a more premium appearance.
According to The Information, Apples headset will also be significantly lighter than the Meta (nee Facebook) version. If a user wants glasses, Apples headset will allow prescription lenses to be magnetically attached inside the headset.
Apple''s first headset product is expected to be aimed at the high-end market, with super high-resolution screens one for each eye as well as an outside-facing display that depicts the facial expressions of the user wearing the headset. The headset, according to the manufacturer, is expected to be powered by a chip similar to the M2 version found in the MacBook Air.
All these benefits will come at a cost. Apples headset costs $2000-$3000, according to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Every unit sold is reportedly priced at around $1500.