Apple plans to add AR content to its Apple TV+ streaming video service, exploring new ways to draw and retain subscribers and drive engagement in augmented reality technology.
In the feature, parts of a TV show, like characters, would be promoted on a viewer’s phone and mixed into the surrounding environment. The augmented reality feature is anticipated to be launched next year. A release of the TV+ feature had earlier been set for later in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic impacts on software development and film production prevented the purpose.
Last week, Apple launched the first TV+ video bundle, giving viewers who subscribe to the Apple service a reduced rate on CBS All Access and Showtime.
Apple launched TV+ in 2019 for $4.99 per month. Apple is thinking of keeping a free access offer to attract new subscribers, but with a shortened period.
For 2022, Apple is planning to launch a headset that mixes AR and VR with a focus on video consumption, games, and virtual meetings. The augmented reality feature for TV+ would present Apple more content to show off on future products when they launch.
