Apple Acquires Startup AR Headset Mira

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Apple

According to a post from the CEO of Los Angeles-based AR startup Mira’s private Instagram account and a source familiar with the situation, Apple Inc. (AAPL.O) has acquired Mira. Mira produces headsets for other businesses and the U.S. military.

This occurs the day after Apple unveiled the expensive Vision Pro augmented reality headset, one of its riskiest bets since the launch of the iPhone more than ten years ago, entering a market that is dominated by Meta Platforms (META.O).

After years of disputes between the companies over issues like user privacy and control of developer platforms, Apple’s headset will put it in direct competition with Facebook-owner Meta and test a market crowded with products that have yet to gain traction with consumers.

According to press releases and government documents, Mira has military contracts worth $702,351 with the Navy and a small agreement with the US Air Force.

According to The Verge, Apple confirmed the acquisition and said that while it occasionally purchases smaller technology firms, it typically keeps its goals and plans under wraps.

 

According to the report, Apple hired at least 11 Mira employees as part of the acquisition.

Requests for comment from Reuters were not immediately answered by Apple, Mira, or its CEO Ben Taft.