Tech giant Apple has acquired Mira, a Los Angeles-based startup specializing in augmented reality (AR) headsets, as reported by The Verge. The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.
Mira, founded in 2016 by entrepreneur Ben Taft, has been developing AR headsets for various clients, including Universal Studios for attractions at its Nintendo World theme parks. Prior to the acquisition, the startup had raised $17 million from investors such as Blue Bear Capital, Happiness Ventures, and Sequoia. Mira’s focus has been on creating heads-up displays and software to enable the development of AR apps, games, and experiences.
Initially targeting consumer applications, Mira later shifted its focus towards industrial rollouts, which proved to be a more lucrative market. The startup had previously secured military contracts, including agreements with the U.S. Air Force and Navy. It remains uncertain whether these contracts will continue under Apple’s ownership.
The acquisition comes shortly after Apple’s announcement of the Vision Pro headset, its first foray into the AR space. While the extent of Mira’s involvement in Apple’s AR roadmap is unclear, The Verge reports that Jony Ive, Apple’s former longtime product designer, was once an advisor to Mira.
With the acquisition of Mira, Apple further strengthens its position in the AR market and signals its commitment to advancing AR technology for future applications and experiences.
