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Apple has not been among the big names in the field of virtual and augmented reality tech. But its latest venture into the realm of AR/VR comes in the form of Apple Vision Pro, a headset which is targeted at the segment of the most advanced consumer gadgets.
Vision Pro headset. Image credit: Apple
A cutting-edge augmented reality headset was just announced and is priced at a steep $3,499 price tag. You cannot buy it yet – its sales are projected to start early next year.
This delivery comes after facing numerous delays. The development of this headset has spanned several years, undergoing various iterations. It is considered a flagship addition to Apple’s product lineup, personally driven by CEO Tim Cook. Now, after Apple has finally unveiled the novel device, we can explore what features it will offer to us.
Vision Pro headset – battery operation. Image credit: Apple
As the developer states, Vision Pro seamlessly integrates the real and digital worlds. CEO Tim Cook described it as the first Apple product that you look through rather than at, from the outside resembling a pair of ski goggles.
You can view the official product introduction video below:
The headset is controlled using eye movements, hand gestures, and voice commands, and it comes with a separate battery pack. It is set to launch in the early months of the following year, initially in the US market, with plans to expand to more countries later on.
Vision Pro headset. Image credit: Apple
The system is powered by the M2 chip, and it also incorporates a new chip called the R1. Apple promises an unprecedented level of sharpness and the ability to display 4K video on the headset. The system uses two ultra-high resolution displays with a combined pack of 23 million pixels.
While primarily an augmented reality device, Vision Pro can also switch to full virtual reality through a dial. Its unique feature includes a controller-free interface, where users navigate through rows of app icons using visionOS, an operating system that responds to eye movements.
Vision Pro headset – dial for changing visual environments. Image credit: Apple
Developer calls its visionOS the first spatial operating system, working on the worlds first “spatial computer”. To get a better view on what it means, Apple describes it as a “revolutionary device” capable of blending digital content with the physical world, letting users interact with digital content in a very similar way as if this content was present in our room.
“Through a tight integration of hardware and software, we designed a standalone spatial computer in a compact wearable form factor that is the most advanced personal electronics device ever,” commented Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president of the Technology Development Group.
Vision Pro headset – high-resolution displays. Image credit: Apple
Selections are made by tapping, scrolling is achieved by flicking, and voice commands are also supported. Apple states that hundreds of thousands of familiar iPhone and iPad apps will seamlessly work with this headset.
Additionally, the device is compatible with Bluetooth accessories such as the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad, and it allows users to connect their Mac for usage within the headset. The downward-facing cameras can accurately capture hand movements, even if they are positioned low on the body.
Vision Pro headset – Spatial Audio system. Image credit: Apple
The headset itself features a glass front and an aluminum frame, housing five sensors, 12 cameras, and a 4K display for each eye. It also includes a fan-cooled computer. The cloth-lined mask, called the “Light Seal,” and the ribbed “Head Band” are modular and designed to fit various face shapes and head sizes.
Apple offers different sizes and styles of headbands for customization. For individuals who wear glasses, Zeiss has created magnetic optical inserts that attach to the lenses.
Vision Pro headset – FaceTime mode. Image credit: Apple
The headset comes with an external battery that provides up to two hours of usage and can be conveniently carried in a pocket using a woven cable or plugged into an external power source for extended usage.
The company emphasizes that users will not be socially isolated while wearing the headset. The EyeSight system displays your eyes to others, and in full virtual reality mode, a glowing screen hides your eyes to indicate unavailability. Additionally, the device can scan your face and create what Apple calls a digital “persona”, or in other words, a hyperrealistic avatar.
Vision Pro headset – viewing panoramic photos. Image credit: Apple
The headset utilizes passthrough video technology, allowing users to view the real world in full color while projecting 3D objects into the environment. For instance, it enables the extraction of objects from message threads and brings them into the real world.
In terms of communication, the headset offers spatial audio, allowing users to arrange FaceTime participants as video tiles around the room during remote conversations. It also includes a 3D camera for capturing and reliving 180-degree videos while immersed in the headset.
Vision Pro headset – multitasking mode. Image credit: Apple
Apple Vision Pro’s primary competitor is expected to be an offering from Meta. This company has achieved some success with its current Quest 2 headset.
Written by Alius Noreika
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