Apple receives patent that turns iPhone screen in virtual reality display

Apple has been granted a patent for a device that enables iPhone to be a part of another wearable virtual reality headset

Apple has been granted a patent for a device that enables iPhone to be a part of another wearable virtual reality headset, a product similar to Samsung’s Gear VR. Apple first filed for the patent back in 2008, when the invention was made. The description of the patent mentions that it’s a head mounted display apparatus for retaining a portable electronic device with display. Apple has been making a lot of news lately, as many reports mentioned that Apple is stepping into self driving vehicles, smart watches, and now virtual reality.

The images provided in the patent reveal a head mounted headset in which iPhone is inserted and can function as a part of display. This will also open a huge opportunity for developers to come up with applications of massive graphics which viewers could entertain with, after viewing them through virtual reality headset. Though the patent does not mention the word ‘virtual reality’, the functionality will be similar to Samsung Gear VR headset as well as Google’s Cardboard headset.

Though a number of changes are expected in the final virtual reality headset by Apple, the product idea also involves a remote control that a viewer can always keep handy, which further permits them to surf through the content while watching iPhone screen through head mounted device. On the other hand, Apple’s rival Samsung Gear VR works similarly as Apple’s concept though it utilizes Galaxy Note 4 Smartphone screen to become a part of display for head mounted virtual reality device. Samsung Gear VR was manufactured in coordination with Oculus, which is currently a beta version that permits developers to launch various applications and test them.

Though the patent has been awarded to Apple, analysts believe that Apple has never revealed its interest in virtual reality in the past. It is still to be discovered how Apple will make the use of this patent.

Source: Appleinsider