Apple could add augmented reality content to its TV+ streaming service

Apple is reportedly working to integrate augmented reality content to its streaming service, Apple TV+, beginning next year. Bloomberg reports the upcoming feature is said to be Apple's way of drumming up interest in AR technology before the launch of its AR and virtual reality headset in 2022.

Citing people familiar with Apple's plans, the publication reports that in the near future, users may see characters or objects from TV shows integrated into their environment through a mobile device as bonus content. The feature was initially planned for release later this year, according to Bloomberg, but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As an example, users may see a virtual lunar rover on a table while watching a scene from For All Mankind, an Apple TV+ series. The feature is seen as a part of Apple's efforts to make TV+ more attractive to subscribers. More recently, the Cupertino-based tech giant was reported to be planning to combine its subscription services into a set of bundles dubbed Apple One, which may include TV+.

For its AR/VR headset plans, Apple is said to be honing in on gaming, video consumption, and virtual meetings. And in 2023, the company will reportedly launch an AR-only pair of glasses.

Source: Bloomberg