Apple acquires NextVR, a company focused on virtual reality video streaming

Apple bought NextVR for $100 million. The acquisition would strengthen the company’s emerging virtual reality and augmented reality strategy.

Apple went on a shopping spree this week and bought NextVR (via 9to5Mac). The company, based in Newport Beach, California, specializes in virtual reality video streaming. Its history includes broadcasts of NBA, NHL, and even WWE events, providing viewers with a 360-degree experience. However, Apple has not stated the reasons for its acquisition, as is often the case.

NextVR made virtual reality video streaming

The above-mentioned media point out that Apple has paid about $100 million for NextVR. It is also expected that in the coming weeks all employees will join the staff of the block. Both companies have reportedly begun to inform workers that they will have to move to the Cupertino area.

Aside from the virtual reality experiences that characterize NextVR, Apple may be interested in benefiting from its patent portfolio. For example, they have developed a more effective method for rescaling streaming video without loss of quality. In fact, they used this technology in their virtual reality sports and music events. 9to5Mac claims that NextVR has over 40 registered patents.

We should not forget that Apple already has a streaming video platform: Apple TV+. But so far they don’t offer live broadcasts, not to mention the possibility of enjoying content in 360 degrees. Probably one of their intentions is to offer virtual reality experiences in their service, which would help them stand out from the rest of the competition. This is of course pure speculation.

The Augmented Reality Glasses from Apple

According to reports in recent years, those led by Tim Cook are working on augmented reality glasses, commonly known as “apple glasses”. Just today, Ming-Chi Kuo, who has an impeccable reputation for reporting on future Apple products, has predicted that the device could be on the market by 2022.

Apple has made its commitment to augmented reality clear in its current device portfolio. The latest generations of the iPhone as well as the iPad Pro integrate software and hardware proposals to enhance AR applications. ARKit undoubtedly continues to increase its popularity among developers. They are constantly experimenting with the technology offered by Apple, and the results are as varied as they are interesting.