I don't think it needs to be "mainstream" even in the upcoming gen, in the way that phones/laptops are "mainstream".
For the initial market I think that replacing work/gaming PCs is a good enough start. I'd love to be able to fully replace my gaming PC/work computer with something like this. (And I'm keeping a close eye on simula VR. ;) )
Batteries imo is the biggest hurdle, something this intense with only a two hour battery life like other portable devices, steam deck, is a real issue to being a drop in replacement for a work laptop.
EDIT: Also as far as a killer app, I don't think video calls are the right way to look at it per se.
Immediate and immersive personal connection are a huge plus imo. Example, would you rather see your long distance parter on a phone screen, or in full body form sitting next to you?
The magnetic battery packs for iPhones would be ideal for swapping out waist attached power as described in the leak. Imagine that you had a couple of these batteries and one could be charging while the other was in use and then you just swap. Bonus because they also act as extra power for your iPhone and lock you into the Apple ecosystem even more.
For the initial market I think that replacing work/gaming PCs is a good enough start. I'd love to be able to fully replace my gaming PC/work computer with something like this. (And I'm keeping a close eye on simula VR. ;) )
Batteries imo is the biggest hurdle, something this intense with only a two hour battery life like other portable devices, steam deck, is a real issue to being a drop in replacement for a work laptop.
EDIT: Also as far as a killer app, I don't think video calls are the right way to look at it per se.
Immediate and immersive personal connection are a huge plus imo. Example, would you rather see your long distance parter on a phone screen, or in full body form sitting next to you?