Apple has reportedly acquired the Spaces startup, a company that worked in virtual reality technology.
Protocol announced the acquisition of on its website, claiming insider sources.
Spaces was founded in 2016 by DreamWorks Animation alumni, and since, the company has been working on virtual reality products. One of its most successful was an add-on for Zoom that allowed businesses to host video conferences using animated avatars.
Last week, Spaces discontinued its entire product portfolio, despite the coronavirus pandemic increasing demand for such services. The Spaces website now says that the organization is “heading in a new direction,” seemingly confirming it has been acquired.
“Thank you to our users and partners who participated in our awesome VR video conferencing product and the many people who enjoyed our VR location-based entertainment attractions found at theme parks, theaters, and more,” the company said.
Protocol reached out to both Spaces and Apple for a comment but didn’t receive a response on a potential acquisition. Apple rarely confirms it has acquired a particular company.
Apple is widely expected to launch its own virtual reality headset in 2021, based on the Apple Glass concept.
According to Bloomberg, the new headset will feature super HD displays and a speaker system that’s cinematic and offers 360 audio. The idea is to help consumers differentiate between real life and virtual reality experiences to reduce harm.
Are you pleased to see Apple take hold of more VR companies? Are you excited about the possibility of Apple Glass? Let us know your thoughts and check back soon for more news.
