Apple Researching Mirror Finish and Charging Stands for Mixed-Reality Headset

Newly granted patent applications show that Apple is researching a one-way mirror finish, wireless charging systems, and charging stands for headset devices.

Patently Apple spotted a patent filed by Apple that outlines how a head-mounted display device may be charged via a coil inside a headband.

Apple explains how a headset may have a number of receiving coils connected to the device's power storage or battery. The headband continues to function as expected, with the left and right sides of the headband adjusted to support the display unit on the front of the user's face. When the user is wearing a headset, Apple describes separate charging modes to allow wireless charging.

A base that is connected to a transmission coil is described in the patent. In some embodiments, the power supply device is a charging stand to hang the headset on via its headband, while in others it is a flat charging base to simply place the headset on top of it.

The power supply device and the head-mounted display are configured to align the transmission coil in order to prevent users from having to align it manually. This could be related to the layout of the charging system, as is the case with the stand configuration, but it could also be related to a MagSafe-like alignment system.

Apple describes how a head-mounted display device may feature a mirror-effect finish like some sunglasses or ski goggles in a patent filing. The one-way mirror allows optical components in the interior region, such as cameras and infrared sensors, to function correctly but be hidden from view by the reflective finish of the headset's exterior.

Apple's patent filings are often focused on the company's rumored mixed-reality headset, with previous patents including a finger-mounted control device, eye- tracking, and even software. While patent applications cannot be taken as proof of the exact hardware Apple is planning to sell, it is difficult to ignore the larger picture surrounding its rumored headset project.

Morgan Stanley analysts noted late last year that Apple's portfolio of patents related to mixed-reality headsets are in line with the scale of the company's portfolio of patents related to the Apple Watch.