Huawei to take on Apple: Set to launch VR Headset next year, compete with Vision Pro

Huawei is reportedly developing a high-end virtual reality (VR) headset to rival Apple’s Vision Pro, set to launch by the end of 2024, according to information shared by Twitter user Mochamad Farido Fanani.

The rumoured Huawei device is said to be powered by a flagship processor, but this should be taken with a massive pinch of salt, as Fanani lacks a proven track record for accurate leaks.

While details about the chip powering Huawei’s VR headset remain unknown, Apple’s Vision Pro relies on two processors: the M2 chip for standard operations and a dedicated R1 chip for processing spatial input from cameras, microphones, and sensors.

Fanani claims Huawei’s VR glasses will incorporate an internal fan-driven heat dissipation system for thermal management, similar to Apple’s approach with the Vision Pro, which also utilizes external batteries.

Fanani notes that Huawei is not alone in developing a VR headset; the company’s former sub-brand, Honor, is also working on a virtual reality system.

However, specifics about Honor’s hardware have not been disclosed. Samsung is also reportedly in the process of creating its ‘Infinite’ extended reality (XR) headset, expected to debut in the latter half of 2024.

Prior to Apple’s unveiling of the Vision Pro mixed reality headset at WWDC 2023, Xiaomi showcased its Wireless AR Glass Discovery Edition at MWC 2023.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR 2 Gen 1 chip, Xiaomi’s headset supports both augmented reality (AR) and VR content, featuring advanced “retina-level” displays and AR gesture controls.

In the previous year, Oppo introduced its second “assisted reality” headset, the Oppo Air Glass 2, at the company’s annual Oppo Inno Day in China.

Weighing 38g, the wearable device supports voice-to-text features, real-time translation of conversations, phone calls, and location-based navigation instructions.

(With inputs from agencies)