Apple has changed its mixed reality headset name to xrOS

Apple Inc. AAPL has changed its mixed reality headset software name as it ramps up work on the device that might launch next year.

The name of the mixed reality operating system has been changed from realityOS to xrOS, according to people with knowledge of the matter, according to Bloomberg.

The term XR stands for extended reality, a term that encompasses augmented and virtual reality. Virtual reality includes experiences for gaming and watching videos, while augmented reality overlays graphics and virtual details over the real world.

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The tech giant plans to introduce the mixed reality headset as soon as next year, accompanied by a dedicated operating system and app store for third-party software, said the people. This will be the first significant new product category since the Tim Cook-led company released the Apple Watch in 2015.

Apple didn't respond immediately to Benzinga's request for comment.

Why It's Important: The launch estimate of people familiar with the matter aligns with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's predictions, who stated that Apple could roll out the device between January and the second quarter of 2023.

The latest VR headset, Quest Pro, was unveiled by Apple in October, which sets it up for a showdown with Facebook parent Meta Platforms Inc.

While Meta Quest Pro is priced at $1500, Apple's first device in the mixed reality market could be expensive. The report noted that the headset is said to have the powerful M 2 chip, which is embedded in the latest Macs.

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