AAPLTim CookSource: Apple
Apple released several new augmented reality tools and technologies for software makers during its annual WWDC conference this week. These technologies could be vital if Apple in fact releases an augmented reality headset or glasses in coming years.
Apple has never confirmed plans to release augmented reality hardware, but could reportedly announce a headset as soon as this year. Facebook, Snap, and Microsoft are also working on devices that can understand the world around them and display information in front of the user’s eyes.
In order to succeed with an augmented reality device, Apple will have to come up with strong reasons for people to use it — and that comes down to useful software, just as apps like Maps, Mail, YouTube, and the mobile Safari browser helped spur adoption of the original iPhone. Getting developers on board to build augmented reality software now increases the chance of one or more “killer apps” being available at launch.
Apple did not spend much time on augmented reality at its WWDC launch keynote on Monday, but announced several updates during the conference’s more technical parts shows that it remains an important long-term initiative for Apple. CEO Tim Cook has said AR
