In a move that has intrigued tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, Apple has silently acquired Mira, a startup deeply entrenched in the augmented reality (AR) realm. What’s capturing attention are Mira’s diverse contracts: not just with the US military, but also with the world of entertainment, specifically Nintendo theme parks.
While the exact financials of the acquisition remain undisclosed, it’s a substantial leap for Apple, especially hot on the heels of their announcement of the highly anticipated Vision Pro mixed reality headset priced at $3,499.
Mira, with investments totaling approximately $17 million, was already making waves in the AR landscape before Apple’s acquisition. The startup had secured contracts with notable clients. For the US military, it was supplying AR headsets, like the Prism Pro, to aid military pilots in viewing equipment manuals. This small yet crucial partnership with the US Air Force, valued at $702,351, marked Mira’s foray into military applications.
However, it’s not just military contracts that caught Apple’s eye. Mira’s innovative technology found a home in the realm of entertainment, particularly at Nintendo World theme parks. Their AR headsets are enhancing experiences in attractions like Mario Kart, where virtual objects are seamlessly integrated into the real world, transforming ordinary kart racing into a captivating AR adventure.
Apple’s strategic move seems to align with their broader vision for augmented reality. While the company has been characteristically tight-lipped about their intentions, industry experts speculate that this acquisition might signify Apple’s intent to further bridge the gap between real-world applications and entertainment experiences.
The assimilation of Mira’s 11 employees into Apple hints at ongoing projects, although details remain scant. With this acquisition, Apple steps further into the immersive world of augmented reality, leaving tech enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the innovations this union might produce. As AR technology continues to evolve, Apple’s silent strides are shaping the future of how we perceive and interact with the world around us.