Augmented reality (AR) headset maker Magic Leap is launching its first headset, Magic Leap One Creator Edition, with AT&T exclusively next week. The headsets will become available in the first week of April at AT&T’s flagship stores in Boston, Chicago and San Francisco.
AT&T is showcasing Magic Leap’s AR tech in a series of immersive experiences. Consumers can stop by participating AT&T stores to test drive the headsets. And AT&T will begin selling the headsets online starting April 5, priced at $2,295.
It’s the first commercial launch for Magic Leap’s line of AR headsets, which have been shrouded in mystery since the startup unveiled a series of demo videos in 2015. The company calls its headset a lightweight “wearable computer,” delivering immersive experiences using spatial computing and overlaying digital objects onto a real-world field of view.
The AR headset will operate over Wi-Fi and act as a communication and entertainment device. Users can watch TV or movies with the headsets and can pull up virtual screens to display related information, such as game statistics or commentary. They'll be able to connect with friends virtually online using the headsets, or even place digital furniture throughout the house before purchasing.
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The headsets also offer immersive gaming experiences. To that end, AT&T has launched a Game of Thrones-themed experience with Magic Leap, called Dead Must Die, which transports users to King’s Landing.
AT&T touted the benefits of 5G for AR and virtual reality (VR) technology in a news release announcing the launch. Magic Leap has joined AT&T’s 5G Innovation Program in order to develop and test use cases for AR on a live mobile 5G network for industries such as healthcare, retail and manufacturing.
“Together with Magic Leap, we’re making the future of education, telemedicine, sports, entertainment and everyday experiences extraordinary,” John Donovan, CEO of AT&T Communications, said in a statement. “5G will help drive the next generation of spatial computing that will deliver immersive, interactive content everywhere.”