Large / Augmented reality demo provided by Apple using a smartphone instead of a headset.

Apple’s Mixed Reality Headset Prototype Jumps into Production, New Digitimes Report This exemplifies component vendors. DigiTimes claims that Apple has already conducted a “Second Stage Engineering Testing and Certification (EVT 2)” for the earphones.

“EVT 2” is a step in Apple’s product line. The company starts with prototypes before moving on to the first stage EVT (Engineering Certification Test). “EVT 2” indicates that the stage is the second stage test for the device.

After engineering certification, Apple opts for design certification and finally product certification before production begins.

The headphones will go into mass production in August or September and Apple is still targeting a production launch in 2022, according to the report. Controversial reports have emerged recently about the release timing of Apple’s first mixed reality headset. Apple originally planned for a 2019 release, but pushed the release back multiple times.

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Many credible sources said last year that the headset would arrive in 2022, but Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman recently warned that the device may be delayed until 2023. Meanwhile, analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo continued to predict the 2022 experiment.

Over the past several years, Gurman has had a very strong track record evaluating Apple advertising and products. But it doesn’t always accurately estimate the timing of those announcements and products. This is sometimes true even in Ming-Chi Kuo’s analysis.

Component supply chain sources, such as those cited by DigiTimes, often have an idea of ​​what Apple is doing, but usually don’t have a complete picture. Therefore, this report is not a solid confirmation that the device will be ready for this fall. However, this is a good sign.

These early headsets had 4K displays, multiple precision sensors, and many high-end specs, such as silicon, similar to the M1 Pro or M1 Max chips found in recent MacBook Pro models. The headsets are used for professional applications and help app developers to start working on a wide variety of immersive experiences, drawing users to a more mainstream product.