Apple has acquired Mira, a startup specializing in augmented reality (AR) headsets, to bolster its position in the mixed-reality field. The acquisition comes shortly after Apple unveiled its Vision Pro headset, signaling the company’s entry into the AR-mixed reality market. While Apple has not disclosed its specific plans for the acquisition, it is clear that the company is focused on advancing its “spatial computing” ambitions.
Mira, based in Los Angeles, was founded in 2016 and has been developing AR headsets for various clients, including Universal Studios for attractions at its Nintendo World theme parks. The company also has military contracts, such as with the US Air Force and Navy, supplying headsets for military pilots. Interestingly, Jony Ive, former product designer at Apple, served as an advisor to Mira.
With the launch of the Vision Pro headset, Apple aims to establish “spatial computing” as the next major technology shift after the iPhone. To stay ahead of competitors like Meta, Apple wants to maintain its lead in the VR/AR market. Acquiring Mira allows Apple to tap into the startup’s talent pool, particularly its experience working with the US Defense, to strengthen its position in the field of mixed reality.
