To the joy of tech and virtual reality enthusiasts, Apple recently announced its very own mixed-reality headset: the Apple Vision Pro. The device defines this era of technology, blending the real and virtual worlds. While it is primarily being marketed as an immersive AR device, users can easily switch from augmented to full virtual reality using a dial. So, let’s look at a few key things to know about the Vision Pro headset:
Design
The Apple Vision Pro headset has a premium design, enough to justify the heavy price tag. One can think of it as a computer in the shape of sunglasses. Sporting a sleek look, the wearable device is designed with high performance, portability, and comfort in mind. It is surprisingly compact for a VR headset. At the front of the headset, users can find a three-dimensional laminated glass flowing into an aluminum frame. The display layer also houses a feature called EyeSight, which reveals the user’s eyes and lets those nearby know when they are using apps or fully immersed in an experience feature. The front portion also acts as the lens for the numerous cameras and sensors built into the device. The aluminum frame gently goes around the head. The device also has a tailored face cushion that can accommodate different face shapes and sizes. Along with the main headset, users get an attachable headband, which will help them customize and personalize the functionality of their Apple Vision Pro headset.
Key features
In the ever-evolving world of technology, Apple has consistently led the charge with innovation. The Apple Vision Pro headset is no exception. Some of the prominent features to expect from this mixed reality tool are:
Innovative hardware: The device comes with impressive hardware, with the primary display using micro-OLED technology. The headset packs 23 million pixels in two displays. Optical inserts can be used by those who need visual correction to see clearly.
High-performing speakers: The Vision Pro comes with flexible straps that house the Spatial Audio System speakers. Further, dual-driver audio pods are positioned next to each ear of the user to deliver personalized sound while letting them listen to their surroundings as required.
Responsive eye tracking system: The device comes with high-speed technology and LED tracking systems, which provide precise inputs without any external controller. So, one can select the panels by merely looking at them, an effort that is aided by the sophisticated sensors in the device.
Powerful dual-chip system: A dual‑chip design facilitates the spatial experiences on the Apple Vision Pro. Here, Apple’s M2 chip and the brand-new R1 chip simultaneously power the device.
External battery: Users can attach a power cable to the side of the headset. The cable can either connect to an outlet for all-day use or an external battery pack for 2 hours of portable use.
Privacy and security: With all kinds of alternate reality devices, the key concern is the safety and security of sensitive information. With the Vision Pro, users have full control of their data, and like every other Apple product, the brand is likely to carry out its due diligence to ensure complete security. For instance, eye input data, which is recorded by the device, is not shared with Apple or a third-party player. Further, the data from the camera is processed at the core system level so that apps do not have access to the surroundings when enabling spatial audio or other spatial experiences.
Price and availability
Apple announced the Vision Pro to be available at a price of $3,499. It is one of the most expensive augmented and virtual reality devices and among the brand’s biggest announcements in recent years. As it is a premium product, interested buyers tend to wait for the holiday season to get a chance to buy the Vision Pro at a cheaper rate. However, there has yet to be any such indication from Apple or retailers regarding the sale. Today, the Vision Pro is not aimed at becoming a mass-market device given the price point, but it can pave the way for other AR devices. So, it would be best to keep an eye out for future deals, similar products, and brand announcements regarding secret Apple Vision Pro headset sales.
The Apple Vision Pro headset is more than just another product; it represents a transformative leap in technology. So, those interested will have to keep up with brand and retailer announcements to find the headset at the best price soon.