Apple's Augmented Reality Glasses Rumored to Start at $500 USD

Just two days ago, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that, aside from two new affordable iPad models, the tech giant is also gearing up to release its first ever augmented reality glasses in 2022, though there weren’t many details beyond it being a sleek design using lightweight materials and fabrics. Now, another prominent Apple leaker Jon Prosser has released a fresh YouTube video containing more details about the rumored tech.

The most common question when it comes to any of Apple’s new releases is price point, and Prosser’s video suggests that a pair will set you back $499 USD. However, this price tag does not include the additional cost if you wish to have prescription lenses installed, a feature that the leaker suggests will be offered by the company. The frame itself is said to be most likely constructed from simply plastic, although it could be metal, as the model Prosser saw was just a prototype. As to its technical features, the YouTuber recounts seeing a LiDAR sensor on the right-hand side of the frames with no other cameras to be found, and you’ll be able to control them through either your iPhone of the glasses’ proprietary user interface called Starboard, which relies on hand gestures. Much like the original Apple Watch, Prosser also says the AR glasses could come with a plastic wireless charger. Finally, the leaker expects a release date either in late 2021 or early 2022.

In other tech-related news, TikTok’s parent company has received a private market valuation of $100 billion USD.