This mechanical keyboard from SteelSeries is well worth a look if you’re playing games or just want a more tactile typing experience, and Amazon has dropped the price by over $40.

If you’ve spent time typing on one of Apple’s keyboards, you’ll know that while they’re perfectly functional, they can feel a little too thin to offer any real feedback.

It can often feel more like your fingers are drumming against the desk itself rather than a finely tuned keyboard, and while there are a whole host of mechanical keyboards out there (we’ve rounded up the best mechanical keyboards for Mac), there’s something to be said for something a little bolder.

Step forward SteelSeries, then, with the Apex 7 keyboard seemingly an odd bedfellow for the Mac (it does have Windows glyphs), but with the Mac’s gaming reputation improving and an excellent typing experience, the Apex 7 might just be worth a look.

Better yet, Amazon has slashed the price of the keyboard by $42 off of the MSRP, bringing it down to $117.99.

This SteelSeries Apex 7 keyboard is a born winner

While it’s sadly not wireless, the SteelSeries Apex 7 keyboard is guaranteed for 50 million keypresses, with a soft tactile feel thanks to the Brown switches. While Blue (Tactile and Clicky) and Red (Linear and Quiet) are available options, they’re both sold out at the time of writing.

There’s full RGB lighting throughout, as well as software to customize the color and pattern, and the included wrist rest attaches magnetically. The big talking point is the OLED Smart Display, though, with a small window that can show your currently-playing song, latest Discord message, or information about the game you’re playing.

User reviews for the Apex 7 keyboard are very positive, with an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5. Many note the brightness of the display, with some even calling it the “best keyboard ever” – strong praise indeed.

Looking for even more Black Friday weekend and Cyber Monday ideas to improve your computing life? iMore’s live blog is full of the best deals on keyboards, speakers, and MacBooks around.

When you frequently play online multiplayer games with friends you want to be able to communicate effectively while still being able to focus in on game sounds. That way, you and your team can coordinate tactics while you continue to listen for opponents trying to get the drop on you. Thankfully, the high-end SteelSeries Arctis Pro High Fidelity Gaming Headset is $55 off this Prime Day making it a great deal for any gamer.

With its hi-res speaker drivers, DTS Headphone:X v2.0 surround sound, a quality microphone, RGB lighting, and included ChatMix Dial, you'll get everything you need for your gaming sessions. Turning the knob on the ChatMix Dial allows you to quickly change the audio balance between in-game sounds and your team's chat. That way you can focus on either without fiddling around too much with your computer controls.

• See all the Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India

Like playing games with friends online? This is the high-end headset you want.

SteelSeries' high-end gaming headset is one of the best wireless headsets, with features like high-resolution speaker drivers that deliver Hi-Res audio out to 40,000 Hz, which is double the standard amount, for excellent sound clarity. Meanwhile, the microphone captures clear sound quality and can be retracted when not in use. To top things off, the soft cushioning found in the earphones and headband make for a comfortable fit and the RGB lighting around either earphone makes for a fun design.

Speaking of gaming, if you own a Nintendo Switch OLED or other Switch console or are looking to find a good deal on one, you'll want to check out the best Nintendo Switch Prime Day deals. We'll be updating the page as discounts for accessories, console bundles, and games appear online, so check back frequently.

Or, if you're all in on the Apple ecosystem and prefer a pair of their headphones, you need to check out the best AirPods Prime Day Deals happening today and tomorrow – there's a ton!

When playing my favorite games or talking with my buddies in online multiplayer it helps to have a reliable headset that allows me to hear and communicate clearly. Currently one of my most trusted wired gaming headsets is on sale for 50% off at Amazon this Prime Day. Meaning it's selling for just $25!

Use it with any compatible device or console that features a headphone jack whether that be your Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, or mobile device. Remove the detachable microphone when you simply want to listen to music and easily install it when you're ready to game again. It features a sleek design that feels good and looks good too. If you're a gamer, you may want to also scoop up some of the best Prime Day Nintendo Switch Deals or the best Prime Day PS5 Deals, depending on which console you prefer.

• See all the Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India

Get an excellent gaming headset for super cheap

While playing on a console, just slip the headphone jack into the 3.5mm connection on your compatible controller to plug into the game's audio. Alternatively, if you're playing the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode with the Switch Lite or using a compatible phone like your best iPhone, attach it directly with the device's jack connection. The soft cushioning on either earphone, combined with the sturdy-yet-cushioned design of the headband, makes for a comfortable fit. Meanwhile, the adjustable steel frame on the headband allows this headset to work well with several different head sizes.

If you're on the lookout for more discounts, you should check out the best Apple Prime Day deals. If you're quick, you might find good devices and accessories selling at a much lower price than usual.

WWDC has come and gone, and the tech world is now focused on what comes next. Of course, the back-to-school frenzy has already begun, especially at Apple, but a recent report has me looking toward 2023.

That's right, the long-rumored, highly-anticipated AR/VR headset from Apple may launch as early as January.

January seems soon...too soon

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suspects that the Apple headset may finally be launched in January 2023 of all times. Off the top of my head, I can't think of a product in Apple's history that got launched right at the beginning of a new year. Heck, in the tech world, January is typically a pretty slow news month in general — apart from CES.

That's the first part of this new report that has my eyebrows raised. Especially since I can't imagine Apple would launch their headset, which is a brand new product category for the company, without showcasing all of its abilities in a lengthy showcase. If January 2023 truly is the launch date, then it might mean that Apple has a special event planned for January. That would be a first (at least in recent memory) and would certainly be a cool way to kick off the new year.

Of course, the other option is that Apple just announces the product at its iPhone event alongside the iPhone 14, which is certainly possible, but I suppose they run the risk of out-shining the new best iPhone reveal at its own event.

A game-changing headset?

In Kuo's newest report, he said, "Apple is a game-changer for the headset industry," which has got me thinking about what that could possibly mean. How could Apple change the game in the VR/AR headset world?

You see, we've heard a ton of rumors about Apple's upcoming headset over the years, and a lot of them have been directly in opposition to each other. First, we heard it was only going to be AR, then AR/VR then focused on gaming, then focused on communication, and now I've lost track of where the rumor mill even is at this point. I think it's safe to say that no one has a good idea of what this headset will look like or do.

Apple could go the HTC Vive route and make a dedicated headset for gaming purposes that you need to hook up to a Mac, but that wouldn't be the most practical. Primarily since products like the Oculus Go exist. So, then you'd have to imagine that Apple would make the headset like Oculus's newest headsets which are pretty portable and don't need to be attached to anything. However, that isn't changing the game either, so what would be.

Honestly, I feel the only way Apple could truly be called a game-changer is if the headset is everything Google Glass tried to be and more. A hard feat to accomplish since Google Glass was notoriously a pretty big flop. Too expensive, too creepy (for some), and most importantly, it didn't do anything that spectacularly well. Granted, Google Glass was much more of a concept project than an actual consumer product to begin with, but it still didn't really justify its existence enough through what it offered to be enticing.

A lot of the issues that Google Glass faced years ago Apple will face today if they go for that type of headset, but regardless of what type of headset they release, there's no problem in the world today.

Money is tight, and new tech is too expensive

The world seems to be going through a recession right now — I'm not a financial expert, but costs are rising everywhere. Food, gas, and everyday necessities are becoming harder to afford for many people. New tech, whether it be the latest iPhone or a fancy new headset from Apple, is way out of reach for most people. Not to mention the last time we heard a rumored price, the Apple headset was said to be $3,000 or more! That's just far too expensive for a first-generation product that hasn't proven itself yet.

That's why it won't be a game-changer at the end of the day. To truly change the game, the product has to spread — like wildfire. Think of the iPhone (over a billion in the world) or the iPad, which has become so saturated in the world today that you can't throw a stone without hitting someone who has one. That's the kind of market saturation you need to truly change the game.

Color me intrigued

I know this is all rumors and hearsay, but I don't think I've ever been more intrigued by a potential product. We've heard so much, yet, somehow, so little about it.

January isn't that far away, so perhaps I will be proven wrong (or right) sooner than we all think.

Until next time,

- Luke

What you need to know

• Rumors of an Apple VR headset continue to circulate.
• Ming-Chi Kuo says that Apple's headset will be a game-changer for the industry.
• He also pointed to a January release date.

Apple's much-rumored VR/AR headset will be released in January 2023 and be a "game-changer" for the headset industry, according to prolific Apple insider Ming-Chi Kuo.

In a publicly-available blog on Medium Kuo stated Friday:

Kuo says that Apple VR, which he expects to launch in January, is going to be a mixed reality headset capable of both full virtual reality and mixed reality experiences.

He continues:

Not unsurprisingly, Kuo says Apple VR will be the "most complicated product Apple has ever designed", far more so than its best iPhones or Macs.

Kuo also touched on Apple's absence from a new Metaverse Standards forum, stating Apple doesn't need to join this because of its "significant competitive advantage" as an industry leader.

He goes on to say that Apple's rivals will try to compete with and imitate the headset from Apple, leading to rapid growth in the industry and in related services.

According to multiple previous reports, Apple's headset will be a premium product with very high-fidelity displays, Apple silicon power, and a very hefty price tag far in excess of current rival devices like the Meta Quest.

Earlier this week Apple CEO Tim Cook dropped his biggest hint yet that Apple is planning to enter the AR/VR space, telling China Daily USA to "stay tuned" to what Apple has to offer in the market.

What you need to know

• A new report says Apple VR may debut at a January event next year.
• Ming-Chi Kuo says the headset has been delayed by lockdowns in China.
• He predicts that it will be in stores before WWDC 2023.

A new prediction from Apple analyst and insider Ming-Chi Kuo says that Apple's mythical VR headset could debut at an event in January of next year.

Following Apple's WWDC 2022 keynote on Monday, Kuo stated Tuesday that Apple may postpone the shipping date of its virtual reality/mixed reality headset until the second quarter of 2023, rather than the first.

Kuo says that lockdowns impacting Apple suppliers in China have interrupted the development of the headset, and noted that there weren't really any major hints at a new headset or any kind of realityOS given by Apple at its keynote on Monday.

Kuo now predicts that Apple could hold a media event for the device in January of 2023, before sending out a development kit to developers a few weeks later. He predicts pre-orders will begin in the second quarter of the year and that the headset will be on the shelves by this time next year, specifically before WWDC 2023.

Multiple previous reports indicate that Apple is planning an Apple VR headset that will be capable of both virtual and mixed reality experiences. While it was hinted that Apple might in fact hint at or even reveal its new headset at WWDC, instead Apple only gave us its regular iterations of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, macOS Ventura, watchOS 9, and a brand new MacBook Air.

The latter comes with Apple's new M2 Apple silicon chip, boasting an almost 20% increase in performance over the MacBook Air with M1, and a new design.

We're about two weeks out from the start of this year's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which begins on Monday, June 6. Not surprisingly, the rumor mill has finally started to kick into high gear for one of the most anticipated dates on the Apple calendar. This week also included news about Final Cut Pro, the long-rumored Apple VR headset, and more.

WWDC 2022

The next version of watchOS is expected to be a "significant" update, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The buzz, which doesn't come with any specifics, would be good news for Apple Watch owners who have been waiting for Apple developers to show the device some extra love.

Among the new goodies we'd like to see on watchOS are rest days in Activity, Low Power mode, mental health support, and more.

Gurman also offered some information on iOS 16, which is also expected to debut on June 6. New native apps could be on the horizon for iPhone and improved "ways of interacting" with existing ones. What probably won't happen this year is a complete redesign.

A more muted update makes sense, given the significant changes that arrived on iOS 14 and iOS 15 in recent years. Still, we hope Apple will reveal interactive widgets, more customization tools, a refreshed Home app, and more.

Final Cut Pro

Last month, a group of filmmakers wrote an open letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook, expressing their concerns about Final Cut Pro. The filmmakers said Apple should do more to promote the popular video editing software, offer better integration with third-party apps and services, and "add the few remaining features that our industry has consistently stated are needed."

This week, Cupertino finally responded. As noted in its open letter, Apple promised to launch new training materials for Final Cut Pro, establish a panel of industry experts, and expand Final Cut Pro workshops. The group said it welcomed the response and was looking forward to seeing Apple's plans come into focus.

The biggest takeaway here: Yes, Apple does respond to complaints, which can't be said for other tech companies.

Final Cut Pro works on all the best Macs.

Major Accessibility news

On Tuesday, Apple surprised many when it announced that new Accessibility features would be arriving later this year. The new tools, which Luke Filipowicz says will benefit everyone, include Accessibility updates for Apple Watch, iPhone, and more.

Was the board impressed?

Apple's long-promised mixed reality headset is getting closer to making its debut. This week, Apple's board finally got to see the device, which is an important milestone before Apple announces a new product.

Initially, Apple planned on revealing the headset at next month's WWDC. But unfortunately, technical concerns have likely pushed the reveal date to sometime later this year, according to Bloomberg.

Odds and Ends

The somewhat quiet week that was also included these tiny nuggets:

• Apple Music is gaining an Essentials Anniversary feature that celebrates landmark albums from artists as they reach significant milestones. The first album is Radiohead's OK Computer, which is now being showcased with the album, music videos, and a special Apple Music Radio show called Essentials Anniversaries with DJ Matt Wilkinson.
• This week, Pebblebee unveiled two new tracking accessories that work with Apple's Find My network. The new accessories can be used on Apple's Find My network or Pebblebee's app, which uses CrowdGPS to help you locate items and works on iOS or Android.
• Apple released iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, macOS 12.4, tvOS 15.4, and watchOS 8.4. Soon after, it revealed new betas for developers and public beta testers. These will likely be the final software updates before the big reveal of iOS 16, iPadOS 16, watchOS 9, macOS 13, and tvOS 16 at WWDC.

Enjoy your weekend

As temperatures rise, now is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the day. Take photos of everything blooming with your iPhone, listen to your favorite music from your Apple Watch, and more. Whatever you do, take it all in and smile.

Until next time,

Bryan

What you need to know

• A new report reiterates that Apple VR is a standalone device.
• The Information states it will have 14 cameras for tracking users' faces.
• It will also not be a gaming-focused product.

A new report claims that Apple's VR headset is indeed a standalone device but isn't focused on gaming.

From The Information:

The report says the standalone device had much lower-quality visual performance, but that the executive team sided with Jony Ive, who favored a standalone Apple VR headset over one that required a base station.

Wayne Ma says that Jony Ive continues to consult with Apple on its headset and that he continues to work on aspects including where the battery is placed.

Ma's report reiterates previous information stating the headset will have 14 cameras to track users' facial expressions to help create accurate digital avatars to represent them. According to the report, the headset has been criticized internally for "its lack of focus on gaming", and that Apple isn't developing game controllers for the device.

Apple VR is expected next year but could be announced before 2022 is over. The first half of Ma' report from earlier this week revealed Apple VR was supposed to come out in 2019 and that the very earliest prototypes ran Windows.

What you need to know

• Apple is said to have shown its upcoming mixed reality headset to the board.
• It's thought this latest step is another example that the project is progressing towards release.

Apple's mixed reality headset is reportedly edging nearer to a release after the company showed its next big thing off to members of its board. While there is no suggestion that the headset will be announced imminently, the move is a good sign that development is progressing in a way that could see an announcement relatively soon.

Apple had previously hoped to have the headset ready to be shown to developers during next month's WWDC event, according to a Bloomberg report. But it's thought that is out of the question given issues relating to heat dissipation — the device is expected to use similar Apple silicon to the recently released Macs.

Bloomberg reports that the mixed reality headset was shown off to members of the Apple board, including CEO Tim Cook and eight others. It isn't clear what state the product was in, nor whether it was functional, but it seems unlikely that Apple would show the board something that wasn't at least well advanced in the development process.

The same report says that Apple has been increasing the development of rOS, the software that will power the headset, ahead of a release. It's also thought that the new headset will be the biggest release since the arrival of the Apple Watch in 2015.

The report also reiterates what we've already heard including the fact that a large number of people are said to be working on the project — as many as 2,000 employees are working on the new mixed reality headset. No name has leaked so far, but reports have already suggested that we should expect a price north of $2,000 for this first iteration.

What you need to know

• Apple almost released a cheap VR headset for the iPhone a few years ago.
• A new report says the company was looking to develop a device to rival Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear VR for release in 2019.
• The project was scrapped because of technical issues including problems with head tracking.

A new report has revealed that Apple tried to make a cheap VR headset for iPhone to rival Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear VR, before eventually scrapping the project.

A new report Tuesday from The Information into the troubled development of Apple VR claims that the company started developing "a device similar to Google Cardboard or Samsung Gear VR" way back in 2017. The report says the device would have been "a cheap headset" that let people experience VR by using their iPhone as a stereoscopic display "for basic AR and VR experiences."

According to the report, the device was meant to debut after the iPhone 11, which came out in 2019 and was one of the company's best iPhones in recent memory.

Sadly, the report says that the team "struggled with technical issues, including poor tracking of head movements" which were vital to making people " feel comfortably immersed in digital environments." The report says that Apple ultimately ditched the project, but that some code pertaining to its existence was leaked in 2019.

The Information's report also revealed that Apple's main VR project was supposed to come out in 2019, and that the very earliest prototypes ran Windows. According to the report, Apple could include an external screen on its VR headset when it eventually does release so as to show people your facial expressions.

It is reported that Apple's VR headset could actually be released next year, with an announcement possible before the end of 2022, likely after Apple unveils the iPhone 14 which is expected in September.

What you need to know

• Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu released a new report about Apple's mixed reality headset.
• The analyst said that the headset's release may be delayed until the first quarter of 2023.
• Pu believes that Apple will sell over a million units in the first year.

We might have a little bit longer to wait for Apple's rumored mixed reality headset.

In a new report seen by 9to5Mac, Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu said that despite some rumors indicating a late 2022 release, Apple's mixed reality headset could be delayed until the first quarter of 2023. Once it does release, the analyst expects Apple to sell more than a million units in the first year.

Apple's mixed reality headset is expected to feature a new in-house processor purpose-built by the company for the headset, much like it did with the M1 series of chips for the Mac when Apple transitioned away from Intel. The headset is expected to feature support for both virtual reality and augmented reality with up to ten sensors, eye tracking, and hand tracking. According to analysts, the headset could cost as much as $3000.

Rumors have continued to grow that Apple could make some sort of announcement regarding the headset at WWDC in June. Some believe Apple could provide a sneak peek of the headset as well as the rumored RealityOS software that will power it.

I'm at my desk for a good chunk of the day for work during most of the week. To help me tune things out and focus on what I need to do, I often wear headphones and just listen to my favorite music. It helps me get in "the zone" because time simply flies by at that point, and I have written down most of what I need to say by then.

That's why I am always on the lookout for comfortable headphones to use with my iMac. My previous go-to headphones were the HyperX Cloud II Mix, though I had to get rid of them because I used them so much over the past few years that they started to fall apart on the ear cups. So when I saw that HyperX was coming out with some new headphones this year, I knew I wanted a replacement for my old favorite, so I got my hands on the new Cloud II wired gaming headset in a beautiful pink colorway.

Is the HyperX Cloud II worth the pink tax? Let's find out.

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset: Price and availability

The HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset is available direct from HyperX's website, or you can find it at other big retailers like Amazon and Walmart. There are also wireless variations of the headset that are available at Best Buy, but this particular model is not available there. The wired version comes in gunmetal or pink colorways, with this review covering the latter. The retail price for the headset is $100, though you may occasionally find it cheaper.

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset: Comfortable and good sound quality

One of my favorite things about the HyperX Cloud headsets is how lightweight and comfortable they are, and the Cloud II is no exception. Like my old Cloud II Mix, the Cloud II has a light aluminum frame that is also very flexible, so it easily adjusts to any head size. And with the padded leather headband and memory foam ear pads, comfort is the name of the game with this headset. If it's too tight when on the head, simply pull the aluminum frame down to tweak the size. The Cloud II is very comfy, and I can wear it for hours at a time without noticing it on my head.

Since this is a wired-only headset, you cannot remove the cable from the left ear cup. HyperX made the audio cable with a braided nylon material, so it is easily pliable but durable at the same time. I've never had issues with cable quality on any of my HyperX headphones in the past, and I've had a few at this point. The Cloud II headphone cable ends in a typical 3.5mm jack, but it also comes with a USB-A cable adapter with the audio control box, which you plug the audio cable into. The audio control box has a clip on the back of it, and it gives you volume up and down controls for both the headphone output and microphone input. A button in the center lets you toggle the 7.1 Surround Sound with a single click.

The sound quality on the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset is pretty good. I use it primarily for listening to music and video on my iMac, and it gets the job done. It has 53mm drivers, which deliver clear lows, mids, and high tones, and bass levels are not too overwhelming. If you intend to use this headset for gaming, then the audio quality should be immersive, especially if you toggle the 7.1 surround sound, which is primarily designed for gaming purposes. And while these headphones don't have ANC, it does have the closed cup design, which has passive noise cancellation — once you put them on, it blocks out most of the outside world.

While I prefer to stick with a standalone USB mic with my iMac, the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset does have a detachable microphone included. It plugs in on the bottom of the left ear cup, and the arm is flexible, so you can bend it around to whatever feels comfortable to you. To get the most out of the detachable mic though, you'll need to use the USB audio control box. When you use the mic this way, it has noise-cancellation, AGC functionality (automatically adjusts to compensate for volume variations), and even echo-cancellation. So if you plan to use this headset for gaming, it should be more than enough for your needs.

I may not be using this gaming headset for its primary intention, but it's definitely one of my favorites for just computer audio because it's so comfortable. It also sounds great with crystal clear and balanced sound, and not overbearing with the bass levels either. Plus, I adore the white and pink color, which stands out among the oversaturated gaming headset market.

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset: Surround sound is best for gaming, not music

I did try out the 7.1 surround sound feature when listening to music, and honestly, I didn't like how it sounded. Turning it on making the sound stage hollow, and it just didn't sound great to me. I definitely feel that the surround sound feature is best for gaming, where you need to hear every little sound in competitive games, so it's not meant for music audio.

Another drawback of the surround sound feature is that it only works when plugged into a computer with the USB cable. This is due to the virtual surround sound needing the sound card to work, which only happens when you plug in the USB cable to a computer. So don't expect the 7.1 surround sound when using it with your PlayStation 5, and this pair of headphones does not work with any Microsoft console, unfortunately.

My other issue with this headset is the fact that it isn't very portable due to this being the wired version. The headset doesn't fold down at all, and it doesn't come with a carrying case, making this a hard one to take if you move around a lot. Plus, if you want the white and pink color, then unfortunately, it's only available in the wired variation. But if you go for the wireless option, then there's a little more flexibility, though it doesn't come with a case (you'll have to figure that part out separately).

However, if you just plan to use this headset at home with your computer or consoles, then it's great, and the cost is relatively inexpensive.

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset: Competition

There is certainly no shortage of great gaming headsets on the market. If you are looking for gaming headset that offers just a little bit more, such as active noise cancelation, then you may want to check out the Beyerdynamic MMX 150. This one is also very comfortable to wear for hours on end, but it is also wireless and has an active noise cancellation function. It's also quite reasonably priced at just $149.

For those who want something that is more affordable, then try the EKSA E900 Stereo Gaming Headset. It's also comfortable with some high-quality sound for the price — seriously, you can't beat a $40 pair of gaming headphones. You also get a detachable noise-canceling mic, a drawstring carrying pouch, a cable splitter, and a cozy 7-foot cable to work with. For the price paid, it's great. There are also two colors to choose from: black and green, or black and red. Unfortunately, no pink if you're into that like I am.

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset: Should you buy it?

• You want white and pink headphones
• You want wired headphones that are compatible with multiple devices
• You want headphones that sound good and are comfortable

• You need wireless connectivity
• You need portability with your gaming headphones
• You prefer something more affordable

The HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset is great for those who want a wired set of headphones to use with their computer (PC and Mac compatbile) and consoles. It's lightweight and flexible, which means you get comfort for hours on end. The sound quality is also quite nice, with a clear and crisp range and not too much bass. However, if you enable the 7.1 surround sound, it may make your music sound a little tinny, though it's great for immersive gaming sessions where you need to hear every footstep. Plus, it has a detachable noise-canceling mic that does AGC and echo-cancellation. While it's good for listening to music, it's really meant for gaming — honestly, it's a great all-around pair of headphones, and it comes in pink!

However, if you need something that is portable and wireless, the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset is not for you. It is also primarily meant for gaming first and foremost, so the surround sound function may not be great for music. And it is also not the most affordable gaming headset out there, but it is pretty great quality and comfortable, all things considered.

What you need to know

• Apple announced it will be holding a special event on Tuesday, March 8.
• The tagline of the event is "Peek Performance."
• That tagline, along with the graphic, is fueling rumors of a possible AR headset announcement.

Earlier today, Apple announced that it will be holding a special event next Tuesday, March 8. The event, like almost every Apple event for years, is set to kick off at 10:00 AM PDT.

The company announced the event with an email invite that went out to the press and its customers. On the invite, Apple has given this particular event the tagline "Peek Performance." While, some could dismiss this as the devices being announced having good performance, something Apple is surely known for, many have jumped to two conclusions as to what Apple is referring to with the mysterious tagline.

The first conclusion is that "Peek Performance" refers to the company's rumored M2 processor, the next generation of Apple silicon that is expected to take the place of the current M1 generation. Apple has been long-rumored to announce at least one new Mac at the March event and unveil its new M2 chip alongside it. This is the most likely scenario as the company promised that it would finish its transition to Apple silicon from Intel by the end of this year.

The other, less likely scenario is that Apple may preview its long-rumored augmented reality headset at the event. While the headset itself is not expected until at least the end of the year, the company could potentially show off a preview of the device, essentially allowing all of us a "peek" at the Apple AR headset. Apple has previewed devices before, like the latest generation of the Mac Pro at WWDC a few years back, so the idea isn't unprecedented. It is currently, however, the underdog compared to the M2 chip.

What is almost guaranteed to be announced at Tuesday's event is a new generation of the iPhone SE with 5G support as well as the next generation of the iPad Air. Those have been extensively reported and remain the two most likely devices to be unveiled.

We can all argue about what "Peek Performance" means but, as we all know, Apple is the only one that knows for sure. We'll all find out on Tuesday!

What you need to know

• Apple appears to have leaked its 'RealityOS' operating system in its source code.
• It seems likely this is a reference to the operating system its AR/VR headset will use.
• The company reportedly has a mixed reality headset in development.

Apple appears to have accidentally leaked a reference to its 'RealityOS' in its App Store upload logs, possibly revealing the name of the operating system for its rumored mixed reality headset.

As noted by Matthew Davis on Twitter, the Apple-OSS-Distributions source code on Github contains a reference to 'REALITYOS' and the instruction "allow iOS executables to use realityOS dylibs".

As further noted by Steve Troughton-Smith there are also references to a realityOS Simulator. He says this confirms that Apple's mixed-reality headset "has its own OS and binaries" and a Simulator. This would seem to indicate, as we might have guessed, that Apple's headset will feature its own App Store just like all of its best iPhones whereby developers can distribute games and apps to users.

Apple VR has been rumored for a long time. Reports indicate that Apple plans to release a "mixed-reality" headset capable of both augmented reality and full VR immersion. Details revealed by The Information indicate the headset's design (pictured) and claimed that the device would have two 8K displays and an eye-watering $3000 price tag. Other reports reiterate the device will be much more expensive than current competing headsets and be more expensive to build than an iPhone 12.

In January insider Ming-Chi Kuo that the headset could come out later this year, and that previously stated a second iteration may come in 2024. Other rumored features include Wi-Fi, 3D sensing cameras, and power akin to the M1 processor used in the MacBook Air with M1 and 13-inch MacBook Pro with M1.

What you need to know

• HyperX has unveiled several new gaming peripherals at CES 2022 in Las Vegas.
• The Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset can last 300 hours on a single charge.
• You can get the Cloud Alpha Wireless headset in February for $200.

HyperX, an HP Inc. company well-known for its peripherals for gaming and esports, has announced a brand new lineup of gaming headsets at CES 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The new lineup includes the Cloud Alpha Wireless, with up to 300 hours of battery life on one charge, as well as the Cloud II and Cloud Core gaming headsets. These are sure to become a favorite for many when it comes to the best headphones for Nintendo Switch and more.

The standout headset is definitely the Cloud Alpha Wireless. With 300 hours of audio on a single charge, this is the longest-lasting battery for a wireless gaming headset yet. HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless gives players an immersive audio experience thanks to DTS®Headphone:X® and it has a new-and-improved, custom-design Dual Chamber technology with HyperX 50mm drivers. This means an overall slimmer and lighter profile without sacrificing the sound and performance of the wired version of the headset. And if you're worried about comfort, the Cloud Alpha Wireless includes a soft leatherette ear cup with plush memory foam and a lightweight aluminum frame. There is also a detachable noise-canceling microphone that has an LED status indicator, and you have onboard audio controls directly on the earcup itself. The Cloud Alpha launches in February at $199.99.

For those who want a wired gaming headset, HyperX has two brand new options with the Cloud II and the Cloud Core.

The Cloud II features an advanced audio control box with 7.1 virtual surround sound, so you can really get sucked into the game that you're playing. With the advanced audio control box, you get independent audio and microphone volume control. The 7.1 virtual surround sound can be turned on at any time with a single button press. Cloud II uses specially tuned 53mm drivers that give rich and impactful sound that is clear and precise. In terms of comfort, it also consists of HyperX's signature memory foam in the premium leatherette earcup and has a lightweight aluminum frame that is durable. For multiplayer gaming sessions, the Cloud II also has a detachable noise-canceling mic with clear voice quality and reduced background noise. It even comes in a fresh new pink and white color. Cloud II is available in March for $99.99.

For those who want a more budget-friendly option, there is the Cloud Core. Even though it's the least expensive of the three new headsets, it still has DTS®Headphone:X® for accurate 3D audio spatialization. It also has a flexible, detachable noise-canceling microphone that is certified for Discord and TeamSpeak, so your gaming buddies will hear every word without distortion. And like the other headsets, it has a durable and lightweight aluminum frame with an adjustable headband, as well as HyperX memory foam and soft leatherette ear cups. The Cloud Core is available later in January and will only cost $69.99.

HyperX has made high-quality headsets in the past, and I personally used a Cloud II Mix headset daily for several years. These are sure to become a new favorite when it comes to gaming on our Nintendo Switch and even just listening to music on our best iPhone or Mac.

What you need to know

• Apple's AR/VR headset will reportedly have 3D sensing modules.
• It will use technology found in the iPhone to track hand movements and detect objects.
• This will reportedly form a key part of the device's functionality.

A second Apple VR in as many days says the rumored mixed reality headset will feature 3D sensing modules to track hand movements and detect objects.

In a research note seen by iMore Ming-Chi Kuo writes:

Kuo states that Apple's AR/MR headset will have four sets of 3D sensors, as opposed to one or two as found on Apple's best iPhones, such as iPhone 13.

Kuo says the headset will be able to "detect changes in the dynamic details of the hand" as well as changes in position, and the objects in front of the user. This will reportedly foster a "more intuitive and vivid human-machine interface." The headset will also reportedly feature three time-of-flight sensors to detect hand movements at low latency.

It comes just a day after Kuo, who has an extremely long and accurate track record of leaking information about Apple's future plans, reiterated that Apple would start production on its first headset in Q4 2022, and would release a lighter version with better battery life by 2024.

Recently Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggested that there may be a sizeable gap between Apple announcement of its mixed reality headset and a release to the general public, citing the example of the original Apple Watch which came out 227 days after it was announced.

What you need to know

• A new leak has reiterated Apple's AR/VR headset is coming at the end of next year.
• Ming-Chi Kuo says mass production will begin in Q4 2022.
• He has further stated that Apple's second-gen headset will arrive in 2024.

A new leak says Apple's AR/VR headset will get an upgrade in 2024, featuring a lighter design and better battery life.

In a note seen by iMore prolific analyst Ming-Chi Kuo writes:

The headset, as previously reported, is expected to support both augmented and virtual reality with "seamless" switching according to Kuo. He says the first design will weigh between 300-400 grams and the improvement in weight "will be one of the key selling points of the second-generation product."

A new battery design for the headsets will be reportedly be optimized by 2024-26, but that the focus for 2022 is the development of the first generation. Kuo reckons in 2023 and 2024, Apple could sell some 2.5-3.5 million and 8-10 million units respectively.

Earlier this week Bloomberg reported that Apple's headset would have multiple processors and be focused on gaming, media, and communication, as well as content consumption. From the report:

Kuo also says that Apple will release a new iPhone SE in 2023, three Apple watches in 2022, and new AirPods Pro at the end of next year. Kuo has a proven track record when it comes to sharing Apple's future plans and is one of the most reliable sources of inside information pertaining to the company.

Whether you're playing games on your Nintendo Switch, iPhone, or computer, the best gaming headsets can really help give you a better playing experience, putting you closer to the sound and even sometimes aiding you in your quest to finish a game. Sometimes, you need a headset that's not tethered to anything and won't cost you an arm and a leg. The EKSA E910 5.8Ghz is a good option for anyone looking for a wireless headset without breaking the budget. It has a comfortable design, cool red lighting, and a retractable microphone that won't get in your way or get lost.

The volume is a bit limited, and the battery life doesn't last as long as some other Bluetooth headsets, but music and game sounds come through clearly. Plus, it comes with several accessories and extra goodies.

EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset: Price and availability

The EKSA E910 Wireless Gaming Headset is $120 MSRP, but it usually sells for around $90 on Amazon. Considering that it's a wireless headset, offers good sound, and has some cool red lighting going on, this is a good value. Not to mention, it comes with extra goodies like a headset stand, a faux leather carrying bag, and cables, so you're saving more money in the longrun.

EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset: What's good

I was a bit surprised and thrown off when I first opened the package. There was a lot of rattling as I cut through the box's tape, and upon opening it, I discovered the three parts of the headset stand lying around next to another box that contained the headset, cables, USB adapter, manual, and carrying bag. This rattling had caused the plastic stand to get a little scuffed up in transit, but it was easy to assemble and works well. There are rubber pads on the bottom to keep it from sliding or scratching any surface I put it on. However, the top part can easily pop off if I pull the headset off the wrong way. I like the stand, though, so I think I'll just glue the top in place.

The headset itself fit comfortably on my head without squeezing too hard thanks to the nice, thick cushioning on both the bridge and earphones. Speaking of earphones, the red lights shining through the grate on either side give this headset a cool look without being too flashy, a balance that many gaming headsets fail to reach.

As far as Bluetooth goes, this headset only operates as long as I use the included 5.8GHz USB dongle. I can plug it into my computer, Nintendo Switch dock, or any other compatible device, and then the headset automatically pairs once it's turned on. Just don't lose that dongle, or the headset becomes useless. There's also a 2.0mm cable in the box, which can be plugged into the dongle. However, there is no headphone jack on the headset itself, strangely enough.

Source: Rebecca Spear / iMore

The most surprising thing about the E920 5.8GHz headset is the retractable microphone. The small cylindrical tip juts out just slightly on the left side, but it extends from its shell like the head of a turtle, and I can bend it towards my mouth whenever I want to use it. It doesn't come out super far, but my friends didn't have any issues hearing me when I used it during our multiplayer sessions. When I'm done using it, I simply push the mic back in its little turtle hole.

EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset: What's not good

This headset battery only lasts for about 10 hours before running out of juice, and while this is typically plenty of time for a gaming session, it doesn't last as long as other Bluetooth gaming headsets. You'll just want to make sure to charge it up between uses. This lower battery life probably has something to do with the red lights that appear on either earphone while the headset is on. As far as I could tell though, there's no way of turning these lights off.

Sound comes through plenty clear, although the earphones don't get very loud. Now, this will lower the likelihood of my ears getting damaged due to booming music, but it does prevent me from rocking out to tunes like I want to. For intstance, I played Hades on my Switch while testing this headset since it has a killer soundtrack, but it didn't hit me quite as powerfully as usual since the volume wouldn't go up as high as I wanted it to.

This is one of those headsets that talks when the headset has connected, disconnected, been muted, or unmuted. The strange thing is that the voice that tells me the headset has connected is not the same as the mute voice. The latter one even has a different accent and sounds somewhat muffled. It's not necessarily good or bad, but it is a strange choice.

EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset: Competition

If you like the look of this headset, but you're looking for something that will save you money, you should check out the EKSA E900. It is a wired headset, but it offers a cool red and black design and works really well.

If you're a huge fan of colorful Bluetooth gaming headsets, you should check out the EasySMX V07W. It has lighting on either headphone that runs through various colors of the rainbow and it's plenty comfy while costing less than the EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset.

Can't decide on if you want a wired or wireless headset? Why not get something that can do both, and at the same time too. The EPOS H3 Hybird can connect to one device via Bluetooth and another device using the included cable. That way you can hear your Switch game and listen to your preferred music or chat with friends on a computer or phone at the same time.

EKSA E910 5.8GHz Wireless Gaming Headset: Should you buy it?

• You want a wireless Bluetooth headset
• You like the red glowing lights
• You want something with an unobtrusive mic
• You want some accessories

• You want a less expensive option
• You don't like the color or lighting
• You want a headset that can get louder

The EKSA E910 5.8GHz is a decently priced Bluetooth gaming headset for any player. In addition to the comfortable headset, buyers get a headset stand, faux leather carrying bag, and extra cables. Just make sure not to lose the Bluetooth dongle, or the headset becomes useless.

The earphones don't get as loud as I like, but sounds do come through clearly. This limited volume is better for your ears, but won't let you rock out as much as you might want to. Additionally, the headset only has a 10-hour battery life, which is plenty for getting through a typical gaming session, but you'll need to recharge it between uses to keep it ready to go.

What you need to know

• Master & Dynamic has unveiled a new gaming headset.
• It's a premium wireless headset for PC and PlayStation.
• It comes with 7.1 Surround Sound and starts at $450.

Master & Dynamic, maker of some of the best true wireless earbuds and wireless headphones for devices like iPhone 13 and beyond, has this week unveiled a new gaming headset.

M&D's new MG20 wireless gaming headphones are made from magnesium, leather, and Alcantara. They feature a detachable boom microphone, 50mm Beryllium drivers, and 7.1 Surround Sound. CEO Jonathan Levine said "We knew the time was right to create a luxury gaming headset, and our goal with the MG20 was to deliver the exceptional sound and design that Master & Dynamic is known for. The MG20 will satisfy both the professional and recreational gamer looking for technical performance, sophisticated style and high quality materials."

The MG20 headset is powered by Qualcomm's aptX HD technology and aptX Low-Latency for mobile gaming. The headset can also be tinkered with using M&D's Connect app that features equalizer presets to let users choose between sound profiles. As noted they have a detachable boom microphone and an additional onboard mic for on-the-go use.

The MG20 comes with a pretty great 22 hours of battery life on a single charge, as well as on-head detection to save battery life once you stop using them.

Primarily designed as a gaming headset for PlayStation and PC, they come with a USB-A adapter and have seamless switching between devices without the need to repair. They can also be used with Xbox using a 3.5mm adapter and the controller. However, thanks to Bluetooth 5.0 they can be used with any Bluetooth compatible device, and so also double as a stellar wireless pair of headphones for any devices including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and more. I've been using the MG20 headset for a little while now and can happily report that it is a fantastic bit of kit and sounds really tremendous.

The MG20 will be available for purchase from M&D from November 16 at masteranddynamic.com for the price of $449/€449/£429.

Master & Dynamic

When you're playing a video game, either solo or online with others, you need one that fits comfortably and sounds good too. The best gaming headsets offer plenty of customization options to make using the headphones and microphone that much easier.

I've been testing the EPOS H6PRO for a few days, and while it doesn't offer quite as many conveniences as some other headsets out there, it's still a great option.

EPOS H6PRO Closed Acoustic Gaming Headset: Price and availability

The EPOS H6PRO comes in either Closed or Open Acoustic and sells for $180. You can find it selling on major retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. In addition, it comes in three colors to help you find the look you like best: Racing Green, Sebring Black, and Ghost White.

EPOS H6PRO Closed Acoustic Gaming Headset: What's good

When I saw the three color choices for the H6PRO, I was immediately drawn to the Racing Green with its verdant casing and golden highlights. Green is usually a hard color to get right on tech, but it looks really good here and makes me feel like a subtle Loki Variant when I'm wearing it.

The headband is covered in a lovely material that is pleasing to the eye and soft on my big cranium. Meanwhile, the earphones do fit a tad snug but fully envelope my ears in a way that prevents excessive leakage.

I love the clean design of this headset. Instead of having a volume dial and mute button on the cable, these controls are subtly built into the headset itself. If I'm talking to others and I decide that I don't want anyone to hear me, all I have to do is flip the mic up, and I'm immediately muted. Then I slap it back down, and I can talk again. If I don't want the microphone there, all I have to do is pull it off since it attaches via magnets. It's easy enough to remove but won't fall off unless I give it a good tug. Additionally, a dial built into the right side of the headset allows me to adjust the volume whenever I want without having to fumble for controls on the cable.

Speaking of which, the sound comes through very clearly without any buzzing or feedback. I tested the volume and tone range by playing Hades on my Nintendo Switch. I was happy to find that the headset can get plenty loud while handling those deep bass tones as well as high-pitched ones. There was even a time when a character spoke to me, and I forgot I was wearing the headset and turned; I thought someone was in the room with me.

This headset comes with both a standard 2.0mm headphone cable and a cable splitter, so you can get it to work with a wider range of devices to match your listening preferences.

EPOS H6PRO Closed Acoustic Gaming Headset: What's not good

This headset is definitely pricey for what it offers. I would expect more features, an even better listening experience, and perhaps even a wireless option at this price range. Still, it is a classy headset that will serve you well and looks great too.

Despite being an EPOS product, the H6PRO doesn't work with the EPOS Gaming Suite. Unfortunately, that means you cannot adjust your sound settings using a computer like you can with some other EPOS headsets.

EPOS H6PRO Closed Accoustic Gaming Headset: Competition

If you like this company but want something a bit cheaper, the EPOS H3 is another impressive headset to consider. It doesn't get as loud as the H6PRO, but it has a beautiful design, and the sound comes through clearly.

Anyone looking for fun options should check out the EasySMX V07W. It's wireless and features RGB lighting for that cool look in the dark.

If saving money is the highest priority, you should consider the EKSA E900. It's wired, doesn't cost very much, but still offers decent sound quality for the price.

EPOS H6PRO Closed Acoustic Gaming Headset: Should you buy it?

• You want headphones that work with several different devices
• You want a headset with subtle controls
• You want a removable mic

• You are on a budget
• You don't like the color options
• You want a wireless headset

EPOS is a trusted audio brand that produces quality headsets, speakers, and microphones. I love the look of the new H6PRO and appreciate its audio range from high pitches to deep tones. In addition, the quick muting ability and subtle volume dial make the headset incredibly convenient when playing with others online while keeping it from looking cluttered.

It's frankly a bit overpriced, primarily since it doesn't support audio-setting tweaking. However, it is a quality product that will serve you well. The cord length gives you plenty of room to move around, and I love being able to easily detach the mic when I'm not using it, as is common when playing Nintendo Switch games.

What you need to know

• Apple's VR headset has suffered a production setback.
• A new report says it will begin production of Q4 2022, rather than Q2.
• It could signal the device won't be released until 2023.

A new report claims that Apple's VR headset has now been delayed, with production not starting until the end of 2022.

In a new research note seen by iMore Ming-Chi Kuo writes:

As noted, Kuo puts this delay down to Apple's desire to release the best VR headset ever, with software and hardware in perfect harmony with each other and the rest of Apple's ecosystem. He further notes that creating a virtual or mixed-reality headset is much more complicated than making products like Apple's best iPhones, such as the iPhone 13, because they are worn by the user and have lots of design details to make them comfortable.

The report further says that Apple "will target diversified applications for head-mounted display devices, rather than just gaming applications" further complicating development.

Kuo says mass production will start at the end of Q4 in 2022, and that supply chains will see the revenue benefit in 2023, this could indicate we might not see the headset released until 2023.

Numerous reports indicate Apple is working on a VR headset. Some rumors say the device will come with two 8K displays and cost as much as $3,000. Others have put the price closer to $1,000, with mixed reports of either a standalone device or a headset reliant on an iPhone.

The news comes following Apple's recent 'Unleashed' event where it unveiled the new mini-LED MacBook Pro, AirPods 3 and its stunning new Apple silicon chips.

What you need to know

• EPOS announced the H6PRO Series gaming headset.
• It comes in either next-gen closed acoustic or open acoustic.
• There are three colors: Sebring Black, Ghost White, or Racing Green.
• The H6PRO has a retail price of $179 USD/$259 CAD.

Today EPOS announced the H6PRO Open and the H6PRO Closed acoustic headset series, "built after the legacy" of the popular GSP 600 series. Since it offers two acoustic options, players can choose the listening style they like most. Closed acoustic is basically noise canceling and helps contain the sounds you hear so you can focus on in-game noises without getting distracted by what's happening around you. However, if you don't mind being able to listen in on your surroundings, the Open acoustic option is there for you.

This is a wired headset that works with every compatible device including Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/X|S, PS4, and PS5. EPOS also recently released the H3 headset and the H3 Hybrid as well. The H6PRO has several key differences from these other two gaming headsets including the open acoustic option, a microphone that quickly attaches or detaches via magnet, and a speaker system designed with higher quality and premium materials.

The H6PRO sells for $180 USD and is currently available on EPOS's website.

One of the biggest complications with playing online multiplayers on Nintendo Switch is the lack of voice chat. Most Switch games don't offer it, making it harder to strategize and plan with your teammates. This has led many Switch players to open Discord, Google Meets, or another program up on their phones to communicate. The problem with doing this is that you either have to choose to only connect your headphones with your phone and miss out on in-game sounds or divide your attention between the two, headphone-free.

However, this is not the case with the EPOS H3 Hybrid, which offers audio mixing. Basically, it can connect to two devices at once. For instance, you can plug the headphone jack into your phone and then connect to the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth to both hear your friends and in-game sounds. It's one of the best headsets for any Switch owner.

EPOS H3 Hybrid: Price and availability

The EPOS H3 Hybrid comes in either black or white and has an MSRP of $180. The battery life isn't the most impressive thing in the world, but considering it can simultaneously hold a wired and Bluetooth connection, it is well priced.

EPOS H3 Hybrid: What's good

I plugged the headphone jack into my computer to test audio mixing and then connected the headset to my Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth. Honestly, this will be the way that I work from now on. That way, I can wirelessly hear the music and voice acting for any Switch games I'm testing while still being plugged into the computer where my work gets done.

Since Nintendo Switch games don't usually have built-in voice chat, many players opt to have Discord or some other program open on their phones to communicate with online teammates. This headset is perfect for that scenario. Plug into either your phone or your Switch and then set up a Bluetooth connection with the other device. Now, game sounds and conversations will come through your headset.

Speaking of which, the sound quality comes through very clearly without any static or echoes. There is hardly any sound leak either, so you won't be bothering anyone sitting next to you while you use them.

Additionally, the H3 Hybrid's microphone picks up your sounds and plays them back to you in the headphones, making it easier to hear yourself when you're talking during clamorous online multiplayers. To mute yourself, all you have to do is lift the microphone straight up, and then no one can hear you. If you don't want to use the microphone, you can detach it.

EPOS H3 Hybrid: What's not good

The battery life differs depending on how you use the headset. However, keep in mind that the headset still consumes battery even if you're using the wired connection. So you'll need to remember to charge it up between uses if you don't want it to poop out at a bad time.

Additionally, while the sound comes through nice and clear, the volume doesn't go very high. Now, this could be a good thing as it prevents your ears from hearing damagingly high sound levels. Plus, I found it gets plenty loud enough for the average person to hear. However, if you want to jam out to your favorite song, these headphones won't be able to satisfy you.

EPOS H3 Hybrid: Competition

I got to test the EPOS H3 earlier this year, and they're also an excellent option for gamers. In addition, since they only connect via the headphone jack, they're less expensive. Volume is a little limiting, though.

The EKSA E900 Pro has more of an iconic gamer look with its red and black coloring. In addition, it offers some excellent sound quality, comes with a splitter cable, and buyers will even find a faux-leather drawstring pouch to carry it in.

EPOS H3 Hybrid: Should you buy it?

• You like to listen to music or chat with friends while playing Switch games
• You want something with good sound quality
• You want a removable microphone

• You prefer to listen to things at loud volumes
• You are looking for something inexpensive
• You only need a wired or wireless connection, not both

EPOS knows how to make quality headphones and sound equipment, and that's proved once again with the H3 Hybrid. Audio mixing opens up new possibilities for gamers who like to multitask, listen to music, or chat with friends in another program while they play. It has crystal clear sound quality and looks good too.

However, if you prefer to jam out to loud music, these volume-limited headphones might be unsatisfactory. Granted, this should help protect your ears, which shouldn't get discounted. Additionally, you'll need to remember to constantly charge the headset as even using it just in wired mode drains the battery.

What you need to know

• A new supply chain report has Apple ready to release a VR/AR headset as soon as the second half of 2022.
• The more advanced Apple Glasses are said to be aiming for a launch "after 2023."

Apple will be able to release its next big thing as soon as the second half of next year, according to a new report. That new DigiTimes report has Apple's new AR/VR headset almost ready to go, while we will need to wait a little longer for the rumored Apple Glasses.

The DigiTimes report cites supply chain insiders when saying that mass production of the new AR/VR headset will be ready in the second quarter of 2022, leaving a launch as a real possibility for the second half of the same year.

Via machine translation:

While that headset is thought to be one of Apple's next bit products, there's more to come in the form of Apple Glasses — an advanced version of the heasdet that will look and work more like traditional spectacles — but with Apple magic sprinkled all over them. According to DigiTimes, we should expect Apple Glass to arrive "after 2023."

Apple reportedly still has problems to work out, not least issues "including heat dissipation, weight and battery life."

All of this comes as Apple still has plenty of product launches to get out of the way this year, let alone next. The best iPhone ever goes on sale this Friday, while a new iPad mini will join it. Refreshed AirPods and new Macs are also expected to debut before too long, too.

What you need to know

• Apple is reportedly working on an AR/VR headset.
• A new report claims it is looking at a display of 3000 pixels per inch.
• The company is apparently looking into MicroOLED technology.

A new report claims an Apple VR headset could have a 3000ppi display.

From The Elec:

Apparently, Apple is looking into laser drilling holes to make way for more pixels, and is also exploring use of MicroLED technology, using smaller pixels that have faster response times:

We know Apple is working on a virtual reality headset, with rumors indicating it could be very expensive. A previous report from The Information tipped Apple to include not one but two 8K displays in its VR headset, stating the headset could cost $3,000.

The project has been described by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman as a "pricey, niche precursor" to Apple's more ambitious Apple Glass project.

The Elec has a very limited track record when it comes to Apple's future plans, but we do know Apple has a headset in the works and we've previously heard the company is definitely not backing down when it comes to the devices display quality.

The news comes as the company prepares to announce its new iPhone 13, expected to be the company's best iPhone yet, alongside a new Apple Watch Series 7 and AirPods 3.

What you need to know

• EPOS announced its latest gaming headset, the H3 Hybrid.
• It can be used with a wired connection, Bluetooth, or both.
• The battery life lasts for up to 37 hours.
• You can purchase it now for $179.

Today EPOS announced its latest gaming headset, the H3 Hybrid. It's related to the wired H3 gaming headset that released earlier this year. Only this one, as the "hybrid" part of the name entails, can use a Bluetooth, wired connection, or both. Since this is the case, the battery life differs depending on how you use it. It lasts up to 37 hours when used via Bluetooth, 24 hours when used with the headphone jack, and 19 hours if both the wired and wireless connections are engaged.

To adjust the volume, owners turn the dial on one of the earphones. It's designed in this subtle way as to not distract from the overall design. The microphone attaches magnetically and is removable so it doesn't have to get in the way when not in use. There's also a smart button, which allows you to quickly pair your mobile device via Bluetooth.

Source: EPOS

The best gaming headsets give you plenty of control, and so does the EPOS H3 Hybrid. You can download the EPOS Gaming Suite, which allows you to adjust the H3 Hybrid's equalizer settings, voice enhancements, reverberation, noise game, and more. This headset also offers audio mixing, which lets both a wired and Bluetooth connection to carry on simultaneously. That way you can have control over the volume and settings for either stream, separately. Why would you want to do this? Say you want to carry on a phone conversation while in the middle of an online match. You'll be able to switch to your phone connection and back to the game connection whenever you'd like.

The EPOS H3 Hybrid is currently available and sells for $179. Check it out at the EPOS website.

What you need to know

• Apple has completed the design of its three chips for its upcoming AR/VR headset.
• It has also completed the design of the image sensor and display driver.
• The headset is expected to need an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to operate.

it sounds like the first generation of Apple's upcoming AR/VR headset will need the iPhone as well.

As reported by The Information, Apple has developed three different custom-designed chips for the headset which will be manufactured by the company's longtime supply chain partner TSMC.

According to the report, the system-on-a-chip that will drive the headset will not be powerful enough on its own and will need to connect with another device like the iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

The company has also finished the design of the image sensor and display driver. The report speculates that the image sensor, which will be similar to the size of the headset's lenses, is made for creating a high-resolution augmented reality experience.

According to the latest rumors, Apple's VR headset could launch as soon as early next year.

Prime Day is here, which means savings on some of the hottest technology around. Whether you're scouring the website for some of the best iPhone deals or looking for a brand new Nintendo Switch, you may also want to pair it up with a great headset to boot. Some of the best gaming headsets include brands like Razer, Astro, and SteelSeries, the latter of which is known to be particularly excellent. Its Arctis 3 model is 30% off today and will pair up nicely with just about any system you have.

The Arctis 3 features a ski goggle suspension headband, almost making it feel weightless as you wear it for hours on end. When you combine that with its ClearCast microphone, AirWeave ear cushions, on-ear controls, and lightweight design, it makes it hard to beat at a price of just $49.

Though I don't own the Arctis 3 model, I am familiar with SteelSeries headsets. I have an Arctis 7P, a newer model that's incredibly similar to the Arctis 3. SteelSeries created a strong foundation with its Arctis lineup, so why fix what isn't broken? You don't always need the newest or most expensive model to get a high-quality audio experience, and the Arctis 3 proves that. It's the perfect budget option for people who are OK with a wired headset.

It doesn't get much better than this when it comes to budget gaming headsets. You may not be getting all of the bells and whistles or more premium features found in higher-end models, but this is more than enough for most people.

What you need to know

• Multiple rumors indicate Apple has a mixed reality headset in the works.
• Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims a new AR head-mounted display device from Apple could launch next year.
• Specifically, he states it would be in the second quarter of 2022.

A new report says that Apple's rumored VR headset could be launched next year.

In a note seen by iMore, supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that the device could debut in Q2 of 2022. Kuo says "we predict that Apple will launch an AR head-mounted display device in 2Q22", further stating the device will provide "an image-like penetration AR experience."

Multiple previous reports indicate Apple is expected to launch its own AR/VR headset in the future to compete with the best VR headsets on the market.

The report from Kuo echoes Mark Gurman at Bloomberg who claims Apple "has planned to launch the product" as early as 2022. Other reports have suggested that Apple's headset may be a mixed reality headset capable of both AR and VR entertainment.

A previous claimed that Apple's headset will be a "pricey" and "niche" device with two 8K displays, that report stated the headset could cost a whopping $3000. Previously we've also heard that Apple's VR headset may run on Apple silicon, with chips that beat the performance of the current M1 MacBook Pro.

In March Kuo reported that Apple's headset will feature eye-tracking. From our report:

There are so many gaming headsets out there, which makes it hard to really know what you should get. Having experienced this dilemma many times myself, I'm always happy to check out a new pair of headphones. Recently I had the pleasure of testing the EPOS H3 Gaming Headset.

These headphones are marketed as a closed-acoustic gaming headset to be used on a wide range of devices. I found it worked excellently while using my phone, playing my Nintendo Switch, and while on my computer. While they aren't the very best headphones you can purchase, they're a great choice overall without costing a fortune.

EPOS H3 Gaming Headset: Price and availability

The EPOS H3 Gaming Headset can be purchased from Amazon or Best Buy for $120. You can get it in Black or White and Black. While it's temporarily out of stock on Amazon right now, you can sign up for email notifications as to when it will be back in stock. You can also purchase it now, but you will not be charged until it ships.

EPOS H3 Gaming Headset: What's good

I really love the look and feel of the EPOS H3 Gaming Headset, and not just because the white and black design makes me think of a Stormtrooper. The soft cushioning on the above band coupled with the soft, adjustable earphones feel great on my head. I don't feel squeezed, but I also feel like the device won't fall off.

One of my favorite things about this headset are the subtle mute and volume controls. In fact, it took me a second to realize that there were even on the headphone. The unintrusive wheel on the right earphone spins left or write to increase or decrease output without making a big deal over the controls.

There is no mute button per se, however, flipping up the microphone does mute the device while getting it out of the way. This headset is great for giving you controls without a garish button detracting from the overall design. While on the subject of the mic, while playing games with friends, I was told that my voice came through loud and clear without any feedback. However, the microphone cannot be removed.

As far as sound goes, the EPOS H3 uses a closed acoustic design. This means that it has closed-back headphones that isolate from external noise and have minimal sound leakage. Think of it like your ears are marinating in the sounds with nothing getting away. I found that bass, mid, and high tones all come through easily and crystal clear for enjoyable listening sessions. There's also hardly any sound leakage, so I can feel comfortable using them on a plane or bus.

I was happily surprised to find that the headset comes with both a headphone and microphone splitter as well as your standard 2.0 mm headphone jack. This opens up some more possibilities for what kind of devices you can plug into while appealing to more listening preferences. I will say that it took a bit more effort than it should have to completely plug those cables into the headset, though. At first I didn't push them in all the way and the sound came through wonky, but after pushing them in further there wasn't an issue.

EPOS H3 Gaming Headset: What's not good

While the H3 has a great range of sound, it can't get very loud. I tested it on my Nintendo Switch, my phone, and my computer. The sounds was admittedly a bit louder from my phone and got to a comfortable level everywhere I used it, but it I couldn't crank up the output as much as I wanted. This is a problem if you're listening to quiet songs or if you really want to bang out to your favorite tune. But if you're the kind of person that wants to protect your ears from loud blasts, this will be a great choice for you.

My only other complaint is that this is a wired-only headset. The cables do reach six feet giving you plenty of room to move around with. However, I'd like this headset more if there was at least the option for a Bluetooth connection.

EPOS H3 Gaming Headset: Competition

Anyone looking for a wireless connection should check out the EasySMX V07W. It features RGB lighting on either headphone and can be used both wirelessly and with a cable connection.

If you're on a budget and don't want to spend that much, I highly suggest looking at the EKSA E900. It's a wired headset that comes in a sleek red and black design.

There's also the EKSA E900 PRO if you're looking for a slightly nicer budget option that's very similar to the one above.

EPOS H3 Gaming Headset: Should you buy it?

• You want headphones that work with several different devices
• You want a mid-priced headset with good sound
• You want a headset with unintrusive volume and mute controls

• You want to listen to music wirelessly
• You want a removable microphone
• You want your sound to get really loud

I really like the look and feel of the EPOS H3. The earphones are well cushioned and the bar across the top doesn't put too much pressure on my head. I also love the subtle volume and mute controls that don't take away from the overall design of the device. The sounds come through crystal clear and easily hit low, mid, and high tones. Overall, this is a great mid-cost headset for any device.

Just be aware that this is a wired-only headset and that the volume doesn't get very loud. It will be harder to hear quieter songs or to really blast out your favorite songs, (though maybe that's a good thing for your ears).

What you need to know

• Apple is reportedly behind on its prototyping schedule for Apple glasses.
• It isn't clear whether that's Appel Glass, or its mixed reality headset, however.

The heavily-rumored Apple Glass might be behind schedule, with DigiTimes reporting that prototype testing hasn't taken place during the expected timescales.

The paywalled report says that P2 prototype testing of "AR glasses" was expected in the first quarter of this year, but that Apple hasn't met that schedule.

However, it isn't clear how much credence we should give this report. DigiTimes' use of the word "glasses" would suggest that it's talking about Apple Glass, an AR device that is thought to be a number of years away from production. The device that had been rumored for a 2021 announcement is actually a different one altogether – a mixed reality headset. It's possible that DigiTimes is simply getting its wording wrong, however.

Apple Glass, a new type of product that will piggyback off of an iPhone in a similar way to the non-cellular Apple Watch Series 6, is thought to be something more ambitious than a mixed reality headset. For that reason, we've heard suggestions that Apple Glass won't be ready until 2025 at the earliest.

With all of this in mind, I suspect that DigiTimes is actually talking about that mixed reality headset, a device that will be similar to existing virtual reality headsets but with cameras attached so as to also offer augmented reality features and capabilities.

What you need to know

• Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the 2022 iPhone will ship with a 48-megapixel camera.
• The rumored mixed reality headset is set for a launch in the second quarter of next year.

Apple will release a new iPhone next year, that much we know. But analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is now adding more fuel to suggestions that we can look forward to a huge camera upgrade – 48-megapixels, no less. Kuo, via a research note seen by iMore, also suggests that Apple's heavily-rumored mixed reality headset will debut in the second quarter of next year.

As part of a larger research note looking at lens pricing competition in relation, Kuo says that both Largan and Yujingguang will benefit from Apple's upcoming products with a "new upgrade cycle" coming.

The analyst says that both Largan and Yujingguang are currently working with Apple to develop head-mounted display (HMD) lenses as well as a 48-megapixel camera. The former will be used in Apple's mixed reality headset, while the latter will likely find its way into the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max – assuming that's the naming convention Apple goes with, of course.

Both Largan and Yujingguang are expected to be involved in iPhone 13 production, with strong demand expected to drive significant HoH growth in 2H21.

Ming-Chi Kuo has previously suggested that a 48-megapixel camera is in the works, with 8K video recording thought to be made possible by the improved hardware. That will be a huge upgrade, but right now the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the best iPhone for photographers. At least until September!

What you need to know

• EPOS is launching their new H3 Wired Gaming Headset today.
• Featuring a sleek, comfortable design, the H3 comes in Onyx Black and Ghost White.
• The H3 Wired Gaming Headset will retail for $119 USD.

EPOS, one of the world's leaders in audio equipment, has announced that their newest gaming headset, the H3 Wired Gaming Headset, will be launching today. With the gaming industry growing by the day, EPOS wanted to create a product that offers crisp audio quality in order to facilitate taking immersive gaming experiences to the next level.

The H3 Wired Gaming Headset offers compatibility with any device that has 3.5 mm audio jack support, meaning that it'll work just fine with the Nintendo Switch. The H3 boasts two colours, a sleek Onyx Black and a bold Ghost White, with intuitive audio control on the right ear cup, allowing for convenient adjustments while playing.

The microphone featured in the H3 Wired Gaming Headset offers a uniquely crisp quality that allows for clear and precise party chat when playing some of the amazing multiplayer games that consoles like the Nintendo Switch have to offer. No longer will Switch players be forced to deal with crackling audio in games where quick reactions can make or break a match.

Those who are interested in the H3 Wired Gaming Headset can head over to the EPOS website to purchase them. The suggested retail price is $119 USD, or $159 CAD.

What you need to know

• A new rumor says Apple wants to release its AR/VR headset "in the next several months".
• Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple would prefer this to be at an in-person event, not online.

A new report says Apple may announce its Apple VR in the "next several months", but that it would like this to be at an in-person event.

From Bloomberg:

The snippet was given in the context of Apple's upcoming all-online WWDC conference in June, announced earlier this week. Gurman says that Apple hopes this will be the last such event:

Apple announced WWDC 2021 on Tuesday. From that report:

Apple's AR/VR headset is rumored to be a lightweight device that could cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3000. According to The Information, it could come with two 8K displays and multiple cameras for monitoring user activity and their surroundings.

What you need to know

• Ming-Chi Kuo revealed new details about Apple's rumored VR headset.
• The company is attempting to keep the weight under 150 grams.
• That would make the headset twice as light as competitive headsets.

Apple seems to be going all-out to make its VR headset as light as humanly possible.

As reported by 9to5Mac, supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo released a new research note saying that Apple is working on hybrid ultra-short focal length lenses in order to keep the weight of the headset under 150 grams.

The company plans to use Micro-OLED displays on the headset in order to compensate for the reduced brightness that will be caused by the hybrid lenses. It will also have 15 built-in camera lenses and advanced eye tracking.

If you don't feel like waiting for Apple's headset, check out our list of the Best VR Headsets for the Mac in 2021.

Kuo does say that the headset could be delayed due to supply chain issues, but it is currently expected to be released as soon as 2022.

What you need to know

• Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple's VR headset may feature eye-tracking.
• The report echoes previous murmurs the technology might feature.
• Kuo also hinted at the possibility of Iris recognition.

A new report from Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple's VR headset may feature eye-tracking technology to challenge the best VR headsets around, echoing previous reports.

In a note seen by iMore, Kuo states that eye-tracking is "the most important new human-machine interface technology for headsets", providing a smooth experience whilst detecting eye movements and providing feedback. Kuo says that the Apple VR headset is set to benefit from this technology, as we've previously heard:

Kuo says Apple's technology includes a transmitter and receiver, detecting changes in light reflected by the eyeball and judging the movement accordingly. The aforementioned Zhishen is predicted to be the exclusive supplier of this tech.

Kuo also hints that the Apple VR headset may include iris recognition technology, to be used as a means for biometric security. Kuo states "we are still not sure whether the Apple headset can support iris recognition", but that given the hardware specs of the eye-tracking software, the headset could support it.

This, interestingly enough, could provide users "a more intuitive Apple Pay method when using headsets", suggesting users might be able to use a headset to pay for goods and services whilst browsing the web, or perhaps to make purchases of games or in-game items.

Apple's VR headset release date is tipped to be 2022, with reports on cost ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.

What you need to know

• A new Apple patent reveals how a future Apple VR headset might feature a detachable speaker.
• The patent details a speaker that is both detachable, but can be coupled to the headset for providing a variety of audio experiences.

A new Apple patent reveals how a future Apple VR headset could feature a detachable speaker to help it compete with the Best VR headsets on the market.

The patent, published today and spotted by iMore, is titled 'display system having an audio output device' and pertains to a head-mounted display unit, elsewhere referred to as a VR headset. From the abstract:

The patent describes a head-mounted display and an audio device, managed by a controller that feeds audio and video to each respectively. As the patent notes, VR content almost always includes both video and audio, and that aural content is "often provided by headphones that are physically separate from the head-mounted display unit." From the patent:

The patent involves tech that can measure where the speaker is placed (in one instance the speaker is placed on a table away from the user) before adjusting the audio accordingly for the user:

Whilst the technology is just a patent at this stage, Apple is rumored to be working on a VRheadset that could debut as soon as next year. Reports estimate it could be priced from anywhere between $1,000 and as much as $3,000, featuring multiple cameras for tracking motion and the environment.

You can read the full patent here.

What you need to know

• A new report says Apple's VR headset could have as many as 15 cameras.
• We'd previously heard the number was as high as twelve.
• That includes eight for Augmented reality and six for biometrics.

A new report from Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the Apple VR headset could have as many as 15 cameras for AR and biometrics.

In a new research note seen by iMore, Kuo notes his own previous reports into Apple's plans to launch an augmented/mixed-reality headset towards the middle of 2021. Kuo says the device could be powered by micro-OLED displays and have several optical camera modules to power the AR/VR experience.

Turns out he meant 15 cameras. The note says Kuo predicts Apple will use eight camera modules "to provide image-transmissive AR experience", six modules for "innovative biometrics" and one further module for environmental detection. Kuo made the prediction in the context of Apple supplier Largan, which Kuo says will benefit significantly as a result.

Earlier this week Kuo laid on several further details about Apple's rumored VR headset, as it seeks to challenge some of the best VR headsets around. Kuo stated the product would be released next year, and cost about $1,000.

That price is wildly different, although perhaps a little more realistic, than the huge $3,000 price tag offered by The Information earlier this year:

Apple is also expected to unveil glasses following its VR headset, although reports are mixed on a potential time frame.

What you need to know

• A new Apple patent has revealed how its AR/VR headset could adjust automatically.
• The tension adjustment system would react to sensors, keeping the right amount of tension.
• It would likely mean an Apple VR headset would be more comfortable to wear and interact with the physical realm better.

A new Apple patent has revealed how an Apple VR headset of the future could automatically adjust the tension of the band on your head.

In a move that could see Apple's own headset compete with the best VR headsets currently on offer, the patent is titled 'Head-Mounted Device With Tension Adjustment' and its abstract states:

The patent, clearly pertaining to a wearable AR or VR headset, details how Apple could use tension adjusters and motorized hinges to keep such a device well-fitted to you as you use it. The patent specifically mentions how this could improve AR applications, where digitally-generated images are overlayed with the real world:

When it comes to VR, the above reveals how such a system might help to reduce blurring and distortion for the user.

Apple is rumored to be working on a virtual reality headset with two 8K displays that could cost as much as $3,000, and that may debut as soon as next year. With the patent only granted on March 4 and filed in 2019, it is unclear whether this is a feature that Apple plans to include in the first iteration of its AR/VR offering. As with all patent filings, there's every chance it won't ever see the light of day.

What you need to know

• TSMC is now rumored to be working on micro OLED displays for Apple's AR headset.
• The company is also working on micro-LED displays for Apple as well.

As reported by Nikkei Asia, Apple has partnered with TSMC to develop micro OLED displays at the chipmaker's facility in Taiwan. Sources familiar with the matter say that the displays being worked on are planned to be used on Apple's upcoming augmented reality devices.

The micro OLED project is now at the trial production stage, sources said, and it will take several years to achieve mass production. The displays under development are less than 1 inch in size.

According to one source, those who have been hired to work on the project sign a very strict non-disclosure agreement.

Eric Chiou, a display analyst at TrendForce, says that since the technology is in its early stages of development "it is not likely Apple could immediately introduce its self-developed technology into its first AR products in one to two years."

What you need to know

• Apple's Dan Riccio is now reportedly running the company's AR and VR projects.

Apple's former hardware engineering chief, Dan Riccio, is reportedly now the person in charge of the company's AR and VR headset projects. That's according to a new report by Bloomberg.

Riccio left his role as the head of hardware engineering recently, with Apple saying that the executive was moving on to head a new project of some sort. Speculation at the time had that project being related to Apple's rumored AR and VR headset. Now, Bloomberg suggests that's very much the case.

Apple has been working on getting a headset to market in recent years and rumors have been circulating more and more of late. Apple is so focused on getting the project into the hands of customers that more than 1,000 engineers are now involved.

In other news, Apple has also put a group working on displays and cameras under the stewardship of Johny Srouji.

What you need to know

• A new report says Apple's rumored VR headset will feature two 8K displays and cost $3,000.
• It will also reportedly have more than 12 cameras for tracking hand movements and your eyes.

A huge new leak from 'The Information' claims Apple's rumored VR headset will feature two 8K displays and cost $3,000.

From the report:

The report even offers a drawing based on images of the headset 'The Information' has seen. (Pictured)

The report claims that Apple's VR headset will have more than 12 cameras for tracking hand movements and showing a video of the real world to the wearer. That would come through not one, but two 8K displays, better quality than most televisions. Apparently, Apple has been working on technology that only renders the part of the display you're looking at, showing lower quality graphics in the periphery of a user's vision.

All of this will come at a price, however. The rumored cost of the product is reported to be $3,000 according to internal discussions. The Information says that prototypes it viewed showed a "sleek, curved visor" attached to the face with a mesh, and swappable headbands.

The report also says Apple is working on Glasses, but those are not expected to debut until 2023. The VR headset could be available as soon as next year.

A recent report suggested a similar time frame and expensive price tag. From Bloomberg's Mark Gurman:

Although it has only posted a handful of Apple rumors over recent years, The Information has an extremely high rate of accuracy when it comes to leaking information from Apple.

What you need to know

• A new report from JP Morgan says Apple could release a VR headset in Q1 of 2022.
• It will reportedly feature six lenses, LiDAR, and a time-of-flight sensor.
• It will also reportedly be more expensive than current VR headsets, echoing previous reports.

A new report from JP Morgan reportedly suggests that Apple will release a new VR headset as early as Q1 of 2022.

From China Times:

The report says that JP Morgan believes the design of Apple's VR headset "will be close to that of other brands", and that main specs will include six lenses, LiDAR, and a time-of-flight sensor. The report says this will enhance a user's experience "when playing AR and VR."

The report further notes this will be aimed at the top end of the market and will be more expensive than other VR headsets currently available. The bill of materials alone is estimated to exceed $500. (A 128GB iPhone 12 is estimated to cost $431) The report says many Apple suppliers include chipmaker TSMC are gearing up to help supply the device:

The report says several suppliers are expected to greatly benefit from making the headset. However, Apple's rumored Glasses are "unlikely to come out in the next 12 to 18 months" due to "extremely difficult supply chain management and industrial design specifications."

This report reflects recent news from the ultra-reliable Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, who recently said Apple is working on a niche, pricey headset that could cost more than $900 and be launched as early as 2022.

What you need to know

• A new report says Apple's VR headset will be a niche, pricey product costing as much as $900.
• Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple is testing the device using some chips that are faster than the M1.
• Gurman says the product could come as soon as next year.

A new report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says that Apple's VR headset will cost well over $900 and could be faster than Apple's M1 Macs.

From the report:

Gurman says the headset will be a "mostly virtual reality device" displaying "an all-encompassing 3-D digital environment for gaming, watching video and communicating." AR functionality of the headset will be "more limited."

According to the report, Gurman said Apple "has planned to launch the product" as early as 2022. The headset is apparently in the late prototype stage and hasn't been finalized, meaning it could still be scrapped by Apple.

Gurman says that Apple's headset "will be far more expensive than those from rivals", which currently range from $300 to $900. That means that Apple's own headset will be significantly more than this, perhaps well over $1,000.

In fact, some insiders apparently believe Apple may only sell one headset per day per retail store, with sales estimates on par with Apple's massively expensive Mac Pro desktop.

On chips, Gurman writes:

Apple has reportedly shrunk the size of the headset, moving the displays closer to a user's face to compensate for the extra weight added by the fan, as well as adding a system to insert custom prescription lenses into the headset for people who wear glasses. The report continues:

Gurman says some prototypes of the headset are the size of an Oculus Rift, including an external camera for AR. Apple is also reportedly testing hand-tracking and even virtual typing for inputting text.

Gurman notes that if Apple goes ahead with a VR headset, it would pave the way for AR glasses, a more mainstream product for everyday use. Gurman says those glasses are in an early "architecture" stage of development and that Apple is still working on the underlying technologies, meaning the product is "several years away". Apple had reportedly previously targeted 2023 to unveil the glasses.

Gurman has previously stated that Apple's VR headset will feature "ultra-high-resolution screens" making it almost impossible to differentiate from the real world, as well as a cinematic speaker system.

What you need to know

• Sony may be supplying the display for Apple's upcoming AR/VR headset.
• Apple has apparently ordered a number of display panels from the company.
• It is unclear if Apple will also work with Sony for its rumored Apple Glasses.

Reported by 9to5Mac, Apple may be working with Sony to bring its rumored augmented reality and virtual reality headset to life. A new report from Japanese newspaper Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun says that Apple is working with the company on a display technology that would be used for its upcoming AR/VR headset. The report also backs up earlier reports, claiming that the new headset could be announced as soon as 2021.

Japanese Apple blog Macotakara covered the report, saying that, if Sony does supply the display, it could become a "pillar of Sony's earnings" for the foreseeable future.

Today's report lines up with an earlier report from Bloomberg that claimed Apple was working on two augmented reality products: an AR/VR headset for gaming and the rumored Apple Glasses.

While Apple's AR/VR headset for gaming may launch as soon as next year, its rumored Apple Glasses seem to be sticking with a 2023 release.

One of the most essential accessories for serious gamers is a reliable headset. At a mimimum, it needs to sit well on your head, provide good sound quality, and allow you to easily communicate with other players when necessary. While you could spend hundreds of dollars to get a high-end accessory, there are plenty of economic options out there, like the EKSA E900 Pro Gaming Headset.

I had the opportunity to test this headset for a few weeks. After the first few days, I was all ready to give it a super high rating, but then one of my buddies noted a huge issue that I couldn't detect from my end of things. Strangely enough, his input helped me determine that this is a great headset if you're playing single-player games, but it might not be the best option if you plan on participating in online multiplayers (which kind of defeats the purpose of the microphone).

EKSA E900 PRO Gaming Headset What I like

The EKSA E900 Pro comes with a detachable microphone, headphone jack splitter, headphone jack cable, a removable USB to USB-C cable, and a faux leather carrying pouch. Since the various parts are removable, the bag makes it incredibly easy to travel with this headset. Here are other things I liked about the EKSA E900 Pro.

Whenever I switched to different headphones from these ones, I found myself longing for the feel of the EKSA E900 Pro. It fits perfectly over my ears and doesn't put too much pressure on my head. I especially love how cushy the earphones are.

The sound quality issuing from either headphone is also really good considering how inexpensive this headset is. It handles bass and high pitch notes equally well along with both loud and quiet sounds. On top of that, these headphones trully offered an immersive playing experience as the 7.1 surround sound allowed me to detect exactly where enemies were approaching from as I played my games.

I really like the look of this headset with its red and black design. It's especially cool when plugged into the USB to USB-C cable since the logo on either headphone glows read during use. If looks weren't enough, I love that the microphone and headphone jack are removable. I went on a trip while testing the EKSA E900 Pro and was able to easily store everything without worrying about the cables getting damaged. It also comes with a headphone splitter, making it usable with a broader range of devices.

This headset's design offers a lot of convenience. For one thing, the headphone jack locks into place, so you are less likely to accidentally pull it out of the headset while in a tense situation. As far as sound controls go, the mute and volume buttons are located just behind the left earphone, so you can easily make adjustments while playing your games without needing to fiddle around for the controls on a cable. The micophone is also bendable and perfectly holds its position whenever I adjust it.

EKSA E900 PRO Gaming Headset What I don't like

As I said before, this is a great headset, given how inexpensive it is. However, there's one blaring issue that makes it a bad option for anyone who plays multiplayer games.

I had been playing a couple PS4 multiplayers with my friends for a few hours when my buddies started talking about how there was an echo whenever someone said anything. This surprised me because I wasn't hearing any echoes on my end. After a bit of trouble shooting, we determined that the echoing stopped if I unplugged the 3.5mm jack connecting the EKSA E900 Pro to my PS4 controller.

Since we were in the middle of a round, I attempted to mute myself to keep the echo from happening. However, while the headset did indeed mute me, it continued to cause an echo whenever anyone in my party spoke. Now that I knew it was happening, I could see that my friends' volume indicators continued to move up and down for a few seconds after they finished saying anything. Before the next round started, I ended up ditching the headset for another one so as not to cause any further annoyance.

When my friends and I were done playing for the night, I continued trouble shooting the EKSA E900 Pro. I switched headphones with my husband so I could hear the feedback and sure enough, there was a slightly quieter echo after anyone spoke. And I tell you, it made it really hard to concentrate on anything I said. The frequencey of the echoes changed depending on what game I was playing. For instance, it was ever-present during Fortnite, but only manifested every now and then during Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. I'm not sure why this was the case, but it was pretty annoying.

I tested the headset on another PS4 and another PS4 controller and got the same echoing issue. However, I discovered that the echo disappeared if I plugged the headset directly into the PS4 console using the USB-C to USB cable instead of using the 3.5mm jack with the PS4 controller. Thing is, there's no way I was going to play like that. I also adjusted the PS4's settings on various multiplayers and the settings of the games I played, but this didn't resolve the issue.

Later, I tested the headset between two PCs and two Nintendo Switch consoles specifically to see if the feedback happened in these scenarios. The echoes were present during PC games whenever I used the 3.5mm jack, but there weren't any echoes when I played using the USB-C to USB connection.

To make sure this wasn't a fluke for a faulty unit, I acquired a brand new EKSA E900 Pro and tested it. It also had feedback issues similar to the ones I experienced with the original headset. That being the case, I have to say that the EKSA E900 Pro is not a good fit for people who like playing multiplayer games with their friends.

EKSA E900 PRO Gaming Headset Should you buy it?

During the five weeks that I tested this headset on my Nintendo Switch, PC, and PS4, I found that the sound quality was really good. It handles a wide range of sounds and volumes. I also loved how well the cushy headphones fit around my ears. They felt just right and didn't exert too much pressure on my head. The removable components and included carrying case make it an especially handy headset for anyone who frequently travels. On top of that, the volume controls and mute buttons are really easy to interact with during intense gaming moments.

I would have been willing to give this headset a near-perfect score had I not been informed that it was causing echoes for other players whenever I used the headphone jack. You won't hear it, but your teammates will likely find it annoying to play with you during multiplayer gaming sessions unless you're playing with the USB-C to USB cable. Granted, the amount of feedback that my teammates experienced differed depending on what game I was playing. So, it's possible that the echoes won't be as bad for some multiplayers. You'll have to evaluate how you plan on playing to determine whether or not this will be an issue for you.

What you need to know

• Bloomberg has published an extensive report in Apple's plans for AR and Glasses.
• Mark Gurman says Apple is working on two different devices.
• One is an AR headset that could be announced next year, the other is a pair of lightweight glasses coming 2023 at the earliest.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has published an in-depth report regarding the alleged details of Apple's roadmap for its AR and VR products.

In a new report, Gurman says Apple has been working on two products for some time:

Gurman says that the former device (N301) is less technologically ambitious than it was originally meant to be due to a standoff between the development team and apple's former design chief Jony Ive:

N301 reportedly looks like a smaller Oculus Quest and will have its own App Store focused on gaming, Siri support, and more.

Gurman also briefly mentions that Apple's AR glasses will be released "by 2023 at the earliest." This is of course in direct contrast to rumors from Jon Prosser who has suggested that Apple could announce Apple Glass as early as later this year, with a public release next year in Q4, or Q1 2022. There's been plenty of Twitter back-and-forth regarding the veracity of these reports. Regardless, we definitely know Apple is working on an AR/VR project, as well as a lightweight set of glasses. Who knows when we'll get to see either.

You can read the full story from Bloomberg here.

What you need to know

• A photo has surfaced of a purported controller for Apple's AR/VR headset.
• MacRumors claims these are likely being used for internal testing.
• They are not a consumer product that Apple would release.

MacRumors has published photos of an internal testing controller, purportedly being used by Apple to test its AR/VR headset.

According to the report:

The controller looks very similar to an HTC Give controller that Apple was reported to be using for testing back in 2017. MacRumors has also published a look at an Apple AR/VR game titled "crosswalk bowling game":

The report suggests Apple remains deeply invested in AR/VR project development, but that it may have slowed recently due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The SteelSeries Arctis 1 USB-C wireless gaming headset is down to $79.99 at Amazon. This is the same price over at Best Buy where the headset is a featured Deal of the Day, which means this price won't be here tomorrow. The headset normally sells for around $100 or more. The PlayStation 4 version is still going for that enhanced price. (All of these headsets are basically the same excep the PS4 version has a different color scheme.)

$239.99 $330.00 Save $90 1606916658

Includes both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity. Can also connect via 3.5mm. Has premium speakers with an expansive frequency range. Made with luxurious lightweight steel and aluminum alloy. Has swappable batteries and a base station.

$129.99 $200.00 Save $70 1604929518

Great gift for a first-time PC builder or general gamer. Includes the Arctis 1 wireless headset, Apex 3 keyboard, Rival 3 wireless mouse, and QcK mousepad. Has super fast Quantum 2 wireless tech in the mouse and water resistance on the keyboard.

$34.99 $50.00 Save $15 1596548322

The wired headset includes a detachable microphone with ClearCast tech to reduce background noise. Produces great sound and has an adjustable headband. Uses 3.5mm so it's compatible with Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, mobile, PC, and more.

$74.99 $79.99 Save $5 1518843600

$168.19 $258.18 Save $90 1577854800

The Arctis 1 has high-performance speaker drivers powered by DTS Headphone:X surround sound for crisp, detailed sound and positional audio that is super helpful when playing video games. It can also deliver clear communication from your teammates. With the ClearCast detachable microphone, you'll also be able to communicate to your team. There will be no interference from the game you're playing thanks to the bi-directional design that cancels out background noise.

As a wireless headset, you need something that can last for more than a little while when playing games. The Arctis 1 battery can go for up to 20 hours on a single charge.

Since the headset connects via 2.4GHz wireless, you will get lossless audio and a low-latency connection. Unfortunately, that means it won't work wirelessly with the Xbox. However, it will work with the PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC, and even Android thanks to the USB-C dongle it comes with. You'll also get a USB-A adapter and a charging cable that lets you go wired if you want.

The HyperX Cloud II gaming headset is down to $69.99 on Amazon. This headset normally sells for around $100, and it hasn't dropped from that price since Black Friday. This is only $10 above the lowest we've ever seen for the headset.

Amazon is price matching Best Buy with this deal. You can also get the Red version for $75.90 on Amazon and $75.99 at Best Buy. Other retailers like Target are still selling the headset for its $100 street price.

$54.99 $75.00 Save $20 1621338001

A very minimal keyboard for mechanical gamers who don't need a numpad. Uses Cherry MX Red switches for durability and clickiness. Portable design includes detachable cable. Has anti-ghosting and N Key rollover. Red dynamic lighting effects.

$64.99 $110.00 Save $45 1617540346

A full-size keyboard that still uses a compact design for ideal gameplay. The solid steel frame is very durable, and it's also super portable with a detachable cable. Uses Kailh Silver Speed mechanical switches and full RGB backlighting.

$35.70 $50.00 Save $14 1617207997

Includes textured, comfortable grips. Has its own 3000mAh detachable battery pack and can charge any Qi-compatible phone while you play or via USB if not wireless. Compatible with phones 5.08 to 6.77 inches in length.

$125.00 $140.00 Save $15 1616675477

The mic comes with an anti-vibration shock mount, a tap to mute sensor with LED indicator, and four selectable polar patterns. There's also a convenient gain control adjustment. It's compatible with multiple devices and plenty of chat programs.

As low as $20 1615896372

Get the Pulsefire Core mouse for as little as $19.99. The Cloud Flight headset with a 30-hour battery life is on sale for $40 off. The Alloy Origins Core tenkeyless mechanical keyboard is down to $64.99 from $90. Save on even more in the full sale.

The HyperX Cloud II headset uses a USB audio sound card to create 7.1 virtual surround sound. While it's not actual surround sound, it's good enough that you'll be able tell where noises are coming from. If you're using this to play the latest Call of Duty you'll be able to cut off your enemies from sneaking up on you. Of course, you still got to be good enough to aim, but we can't help you with that.

The sound quality is superb, too, with powerful 53mm neodymium magnet drivers. Puts you right in the middle of the action. The microphone uses an inline sound card and has noise and echo cancelling so your voice is crystal clear to your teammates even with killstreaks and nukes going off on your screen.

The design is super comfortable as well. The headset comes with memory foam ear pads that'll be comfortable and stay comfortable for a long, long time. They even come with an extra set of velour pads so you can replace the original set if they get run down. The microphone is also detachable so you don't have to use it if you don't want it.

The headset is compatible with PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, mobile devices, and more. It has a ton of positive reviews, too. Users give it 4.2 stars out of 5 based on 5,940 reviews.