It’s challenging to find a tech headline that doesn’t contain the words ‘metaverse’ or ‘NFT’ in recent weeks. While it’s by no means a new concept, Facebook’s name change in late 2021 prompted even more coverage. Big brands, tech-related or not, are jumping on board the phenomenon. Apparently, Apple isn’t interested in offering its users any part of it. For now.

Apples and pears

According to the latest newsletter by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the metaverse will be ‘off-limits’ in the company’s upcoming launch of its first VR product. The report details that Apple will focus on “short stints of communication, content viewing and gaming”.

Company executives reportedly don’t want the VR set to be an “all-day device”. This means either they’re struggling to optimise the battery tech, or they are considerate of users’ eyes.

Apple’s mixed-reality tech has been rumoured for many years, and we’re inching closer to an actual release this year. Previous rumours suggested that it could cost up to $3,000 – that’s if it’s fitted with dual 8K displays.

“Well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested the headset would ‘only’ use 4K displays and six to eight cameras, however, hinting at a more affordable device,” Engadget details.

So while the world’s enterprises are gearing up to ensure visibility in the metaverse, as detailed by Meta, Apple seems more inclined to avoid the hype. This could be due to the fact that Apple prefers to offer a closed ecosystem for its users. The metaverse in its essence is based on decentralisation and interoperability – something we don’t see Apple participating in without a gun to its head.