The Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple's annual developer and software-oriented conference, is now just a few days away. As with previous years, Apple is expected to introduce major updates to all of its operating systems, but unique to WWDC 2023, Apple is also very likely to unveil xrOS, the software that will run its much-rumored AR/VR mixed-reality headset. Here's everything we're expecting from it. xrOS: What's in a Name? Apple has not publicly acknowledged the existence of its headset, but internal Apple sources have confirmed that the operating system will be called xrOS, and Apple has used hidden shell companies to trademark the name in various countries. ‌xrOS‌ is meant to stand for "extended reality," hinting at the augmented and…

Apple’s oft-rumored mixed-reality headset, which the company is expected to reveal at WWDC on June 5th, “is likely to accelerate the adoption of augmented reality — and the broader phenomenon of ‘mixed reality,’ which encompasses full-immersion virtual-reality headsets that completely occlude a person’s vision,” Christopher Mims writes for The Wall Street Journal Designer Marcus Kane’s conception of Apple’s mixed reality headset (via Behance) Christopher Mims for The Wall Street Journal: Just as personal computers and then smartphones were once exotic and now both teach and distract us daily, augmented reality is coming for how we interact with the digital and physical worlds. Apple has a chance to succeed where others have failed… The key to Apple’s success — or failure —…

Macworld With just about a week to go until WWDC, the rumors are beginning to paint a picture of a jam-packed show, with a major watchOS refresh, some of our “most requested features” in iOS 17, and a customizable Lock Screen in iPadOS 17. But beyond the upgrades and enhancements coming to our older devices, Apple will also use the stage to unveil some products that are completely brand new to Apple’s catalog. Here are five that may make an appearance as we all watch the June 5 keynote. Reality Pro headset While the first part of the keynote will almost certainly be devoted to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and the rest, everyone will be waiting for Tim Cook to throw…

Apple’s entry-level MacBook Air is an easy rec at $799.99 thanks to its speedy performance and long-lasting battery life. | Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge Happy Saturday, readers! Apple’s upcoming Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) is now less than two weeks away. The company is largely expected to introduce its mixed reality headset — ending what feels like a decade of rumors — along with a new 15-inch MacBook Air. However, if you’re looking for a 13-inch machine that packs plenty of value, Apple’s base MacBook Air from 2020 is matching its all-time low of $799.99 ($200 off) at Amazon and Best Buy. Despite its age, Apple’s M1-equipped remains one of our go-to recs for anyone who can’t afford…

Apple on June 5th is widely expected to unveil its first mixed-reality headset. It is expected to cost $3,000 which will put it out of reach for all but the most enthusiastic early adopters. Designer Marcus Kane’s conception Apple’s mixed reality headset (via Yanko Design) Eric J. Savitz for Barron’s: TD Cowen analyst Krish Sankar weighed in Friday with a research note laying out his forecast for sales, and pointing out some potential issues for the new Apple device. Sankar thinks the first device will be in a related category called XR, for “extended reality,” which blends elements of the real world with virtual objects and experiences. He expects the first device to be priced at $3,000, and to initially…

Macworld Stop worrying about yet another subscription service with a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Home & Business on your Mac — on sale for a one-time payment of $29.99 (Reg. $219). The combination of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint provides a versatile toolset capable of serving a wide range of purposes. From writing books and creating shopping lists to automating complex monthly budgets, these applications offer immense flexibility. Adding Outlook, Teams, and OneNote to the mix further enhances your capabilities. Outlook serves as a robust email manager with extensive customization options, while Teams enables seamless collaboration and cloud sharing. With OneNote, you can take digital notes that are easily accessible and won’t be lost. These apps empower you to…