Apple reportedly showed off its mixed reality headset to board of directors

Apple's board of directors showed off its mixed-reality headset last week, suggesting that Apple's next major new product category could launch soon.

The launch of a new product category could open up new markets and possibly re-create the world-changing introduction of the iPhone in 2007. Concerns about Apple's product vision and execution could be renewed if the headset is poorly received.

The Apple Watch was the last major new product category by Apple.

The device is described as a mixed reality headset that uses cameras on the outside of the device to stream images of the outside world to high-resolution displays on the inside.

An augmented reality feature shows the finished Apple Park at the Apple Park Visitor Center on November 17, 2017 in Cupertino, California.

Industry watchers believe the ultimate device for augmented reality would use transparent lens and be closer in weight to a pair of normal eyeglasses, but that the underlying technology isn't yet ready.

There are still questions about what the headset will do. According to some reports, its retail price could be as high as $3,000, which would be twice as expensive as a new iPhone model, and could limit its sales. The augmented reality versions of the iPhone apps will be released by Apple.

There are other technology giants vying to release a mixed reality headset. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg showed off a virtual reality headset last week. Meta also sells a virtual reality headset. A prototype of smart glasses was shown last week.

Thousands of workers have been hired by Apple in a division called Technology Design Group which works on virtual reality and augmented reality technology. Apple has publicly released software for the iPhone that allows apps to use the phone's camera to show digital images in the real world.

The keynote presentation at Apple's annual developer's conference, called WWDC, often includes new product announcements. In the fall, Apple holds launch events for new products.

An Apple representative was not available for comment.