Update: 3 things we know about Apple's AR headset, and 4 big unknowns

Apple may have just announced the new MacBook Pro 2021 and AirPods 3 at its Unleashed event, but we're going to have to wait a lot longer for Apple's mixed reality headset

This is according to Ming-Chi Kuo, an Apple supply chain expert, in a note to investors seen by 9to5Mac, who claims that there will be a delay before people will be able to jump into the virtual world Apple has created Kuo now says that the headset will go into production in the fourth quarter of 2022, about six months later than his earlier estimate of Q2 2022

The reason for this delay apparently lies in the headset's complex design and Apple's industrial design standards, which are said to be "much higher than competing products" Apple has historically prided itself on creating top-notch hardware that is attractive, powerful, and easy to use Since the rumored headset is the company's first foray into this type of product, it is easy to see why Apple would want to take the time to make it

Furthermore, Kuo said that Apple wants to have a complete ecosystem of hardware, software, and services alongside the headset This would not be a surprise Apple is very keen on vertical integration and ensures that staying within its own ecosystem is simple and often sensible In addition, by waiting longer, developers will have time to enhance whatever the equivalent of an App Store for headsets is

Kuo added that Apple does not believe the headsets will be used only for gaming Many VR headsets are primarily gaming devices, but they are slowly becoming work and productivity tools as well Given that Apple's headset is expected to cost as much as $3,000, the company is likely assuming that the headset will be used by professionals for work purposes, not just as an entertainment device

Fortunately for those of us without very deep pickets, Apple may have an alternative AR/VR product in the form of Apple Glasses These may not appear until a year or two after the headset, but they are expected to be less expensive and built to experience, not design, VR/AR experiences

Beyond its $3,000 price tag, Apple's headset is said to feature dual 8K, 4,000 DPI displays, plus LiDAR sensors built into the outside to track your location There may even be a virtual keyboard used with the help of a "thimble-like" device that you wear on your finger

However, it is not yet certain whether this will be a stand-alone device or will require tethering to a Mac or iPhone And of course, with a full year between now and the start of production (assuming no further delays), a lot could change before Apple is ready to unveil the headset to the world

That said, those hungry for new Apple hardware are in luck Check out our Apple Unleashed event recap for more details on everything that was announced yesterday