Apple has recently acquired Mira, an augmented reality (AR) startup based in Los Angeles. The news was confirmed by Apple after the CEO’s announcement on his private Instagram account. Mira specializes in creating headsets for various companies and even the US military. The financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed, but Mira had raised around $17 million in funding prior to the acquisition. Notably, Jony Ive, Apple’s former design chief, had served as an advisor to Mira at some point.
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This acquisition comes on the heels of Apple’s recent unveiling of the Vision Pro, a mixed reality headset marketed as a new spatial computing platform, priced at $3,499. While Apple typically remains tight-lipped about its intentions with acquisitions, the company shared its standard statement with The Verge regarding the acquisition of Mira. It remains uncertain whether Apple will continue Mira’s military contracts, although it is highly unlikely given Apple’s typical approach.
Mira’s military contracts include agreements with the US Air Force and the Navy, primarily involving the use of their Prism Pro headset for military pilots to display heads-up equipment instructions and provide augmented reality solutions for frontline workforces. Additionally, Mira has a significant contract with Nintendo World, where their headsets are used in the Mario Kart ride at theme parks in Japan and Universal Studios in Los Angeles. The headsets enhance the ride experience by displaying virtual characters and items from the game.
As part of the acquisition, Apple has brought on board at least 11 of Mira’s employees. CEO Ben Taft shared the news on his private Instagram account, expressing excitement for Mira’s next chapter under Apple’s ownership. Taft highlighted the company’s seven-year journey from a dorm room startup to being acquired by Apple.
Apple’s acquisition of Mira demonstrates the company’s continued focus on augmented reality and mixed reality technologies. With the integration of Mira’s expertise and talent, Apple aims to further enhance its AR capabilities and potentially expand its presence in various sectors, including entertainment and military applications.
