Former Apple engineer launches XR chip to challenge Vision Pro

Former Apple Engineer Launches China’s First 5nm AI-Powered XR Chip

A former Apple engineer, Wang Chaohao, has drawn significant attention in China with the launch of an AI-powered XR chip through his startup, GravityXR. Wang previously worked in Apple’s extended reality (XR) division, gaining extensive experience in developing cutting-edge mixed reality technologies. Now, as the founder and CEO of GravityXR, he has unveiled a chip designed to compete directly with one of Apple’s flagship XR products, the Vision Pro.

GravityXR’s new chip, named Jizhi G-X100, is promoted as China’s first 5nm all-in-one mixed reality chip. The chip is designed for a wide range of XR applications, including lightweight AI smart glasses and high-performance XR headsets. By leveraging advanced 5nm process technology, the Jizhi G-X100 aims to provide China with homegrown alternatives to premium XR hardware, an industry currently dominated by global players like Apple. This launch reflects China’s growing ambition to strengthen its domestic XR and semiconductor sectors, reducing reliance on foreign technology.

The chip supports advanced spatial computing, allowing devices to read, analyze, and integrate real-world surroundings with virtual overlays. Its compact and power-efficient design makes it suitable for both consumer-grade wearable devices and professional-grade XR systems. By integrating AI capabilities, the chip can enhance real-time interactions and immersive experiences in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) environments. The G-X100 is positioned as a next-generation solution that balances performance, energy efficiency, and versatility for mixed reality applications.

One of the most notable claims from GravityXR is the photon-to-photon latency of just 9 milliseconds, which is faster than Apple Vision Pro’s 12 milliseconds. Although the difference seems minor on paper, it significantly improves the user experience by reducing motion lag and providing smoother, more realistic immersion in VR and AR applications. This feature positions GravityXR as a serious global competitor in the race to produce faster, more responsive mixed reality computing platforms, a key differentiator for next-generation XR hardware.

Wang Chaohao’s transition from Apple to founding a rival XR startup highlights broader trends in China’s technology landscape. The country is actively investing in the development of semiconductors and extended reality technologies, aiming to foster innovation while minimizing dependence on U.S. technology. Chaohao’s academic credentials from Stanford University and hands-on experience at Apple lend credibility to GravityXR’s technical and strategic capabilities.

The startup has already attracted significant investment from prominent firms, including HongShan (formerly Sequoia China), Gaorong Capital, manufacturing leader Goertek, and the popular game developer miHoYo. These partnerships not only provide the company with financial backing but also strengthen its access to manufacturing and content ecosystems essential for XR growth. With the launch of the Jizhi G-X100, GravityXR is positioning itself as a key contender in the global mixed reality race, potentially becoming one of the first Chinese companies capable of rivaling Apple in next-generation spatial computing and XR hardware.

In conclusion, GravityXR’s Jizhi G-X100 represents a major milestone in China’s efforts to develop domestic XR technologies. Combining cutting-edge 5nm chip design, AI-powered spatial computing, and ultra-low latency performance, the chip underscores China’s ambition to compete in the global mixed reality market. With Wang Chaohao’s expertise and substantial investment support, GravityXR is poised to challenge established players like Apple, signaling a new era of innovation and competition in XR and immersive computing technologies.