Tech giant Apple is partnering with Luxshare to create AR devices. In the past, Apple has worked with Taiwanese suppliers to aid in the development of first-generation products. However, the deal with Luxshare marks the first time Apple has chosen a Chinese manufacturer to aid in the creation of a first gen product. Apple’s decision to work with Luxshare is a surprising one considering the current tensions between China and the US.
“Apple’s first generation of AR devices will be extremely expensive, and really only can attract those passionate tech geeks or premium customers,” says an executive who knows about Apple’s decision. “But Apple hopes to push the price down in the second generation of devices, which is in parallel development, to a more affordable price, like a high-end Mac computer, and hopes to attract a bigger user base.”
Foxconn to Develop Second-gen Device
Taiwanese company Foxconn is also aiding Apple in the creation of its AR device. While Luxshare works on the first-gen device, Foxconn, who has previously worked with Apple, will work on creating a less expensive second-generation AR device. The Taiwanese tech company will focus on helping Apple lower the cost of production by automating production.
Rumors concerning Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset have been circulating for quite some time. At one point it seemed the XR headset would release in 2022. However, now it appears that the tech giant will showcase its upcoming headset in June at the Worldwide Developers Conference. Additionally, Apple is developing a way for users to create apps for said XR headset.
Originally, Pegatron was set to help Apple develop its first-gen AR devices. However, the company chose to focus on manufacturing other items, like automotive servers.
Luxshare is Eager to Work With Apple
Luxshare is eager to garner as much business as it can from the iPhone creator. Whether the upcoming AR device will be successful, however, remains to be seen. Some analysts predict Apple’s AR device could retail for $3,000 to $5,000. With such high potential price points, it’s unlikely too many individuals will seek to purchase the first generation of the device.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
