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In 2023 Apple revealed its first mixed-reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro, marking its significant leap into augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) and their role in future computing. The world has seen huge strides and advancements in AR and VR over the past decade, but Apple’s entry signals what can only be described as a dramatic change in the landscape of smart and wearable technology, given its history of doing the same for smartphones and watches.
In this article, we will explore the features of Vision Pro, its impact on AR and VR technology, and its potential to redefine our experiences and reshape our industries with the technology in the years to come.
Apple Vision Pro: The Technology
The Apple Vision Pro brings a cutting-edge combination of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) into a single wearable device. The headset bears impressive technical specifications as well, combining ultra-high-definition displays with over 23 million pixels across two micro OLED displays, 12 cameras giving a wide field of view, and multiple sensors that offer highly sophisticated tracking.
Equipped with an Apple M2 chip with an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, plus an R1 chip for processing data from the cameras, sensors, and microphones, the device can process data and deliver extremely immersive experiences at unprecedented speeds.
Perhaps the most valuable hardware feature of Vision Pro is its displays – 23 million pixels offer more clarity than a 4K TV for each eye. So everything you see through the device is likely to be highly crisp, detailed, and as realistic as possible. With a six-mic array, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and audio ray tracing to go with the displays, the visual and auditory experience is deeply immersive.
Blending AR and VR
Apple’s “vision” for the Vision Pro is to create what they have called a spatial computer, one that combines AR and VR unlike most devices currently available that focus on one or the other. The device can seamlessly switch between AR and VR, allowing users to experience fully immersive VR content and also transition to AR to overlay digital elements onto the real world, all with the flick of a Digital Crown.
The VR mode is perfect for entertainment – movies, gaming, and even virtual meetings can be experienced with full immersion. When you switch to AR mode, your physical surroundings can be enhanced with digital elements like interactive widgets, 3D objects, and holographic displays. This is how Apple intends to bridge the gap between AR and VR flexibly, making Vision Pro a one-of-a-kind device in its field.
VisionOS
The Apple Vision Pro is powered by a brand new operating system, VisionOS, built from the ground up specifically for Vision Pro to meet and support the demands of mixed reality. By relying on hand gestures, eye tracking, and voice commands for input, VisionOS works intuitively to enable users to interact with its apps and experiences.
The lack of physical controllers and dependence on natural interaction is another feature that sets apart Vision Pro from most AR/VR headsets currently available. VisionOS is also designed to support many of Apple’s pre-existing ecosystem apps like Apple TV, Freeform, Mail, Messages, Music, Notes, and Safari, as well as other productive tools and apps, so everyday tasks like web browsing, checking emails and video calls are also possible with the device while also taking advantage of the spatial benefits of AR and VR.
Reimagining Productivity and Entertainment
The Vision Pro envisions productivity as one of its key applications. In a workplace scenario, one could have multiple virtual monitors in front of them, and open and use multiple applications at the same time as floating windows.
The device also seamlessly integrates with existing Apple devices like Mac, iPhone, or iPad, so approaching tasks like coding, video editing, and designing can be enhanced through the Vision Pro’s expansive and customizable virtual workspace.
The integration of FaceTime is another game changer when it comes to work meetings since participants can appear as ‘spatial personas’ which makes the meetings feel natural and engaging. This blend of digital tools and real-world surroundings has the potential to take work-from-home and hybrid work environments to the next level.
The same could be said for entertainment and the way we consume media as well. The impressive display and spatial audio qualities make for an immersive movie experience and even improve gaming and 3D content. You could use Vision Pro like a personal theater experience, with adjustable screen sizes and 360-degree environments.
Apple Arcade also works on VisionOS so games like Game Room, Lego Builder’s Journey, Super Fruit Ninja, and Synth Riders are all available since launch. The company is already working with major studios and gaming companies to expand the range of content tailored to the Vision Pro’s capabilities.
Challenges
With unique features come unique price tags, the Vision Pro’s price is perhaps the biggest barrier for potential users, coming in with a starting price of $3,499 excluding a case that costs $199 on its own. The steep price range can be explained by the features of the device, but for a first-generation product, it is still quite exorbitant and not very affordable for the average consumer.
The device design itself is front-heavy thanks to its metal-and-glass design and lack of a vertical strap for support, making the fit and positioning somewhat uncomfortable, especially with prolonged use.
Another major concern is the battery life, as is the case for most AR/VR headsets. Vision Pro comes with a separate battery pack about the size of an iPhone but heavier, that attaches to the headset through a circular connection. You can slip it in a pocket or place it next to you while using the headset, but it cannot be attached to the headset except with a separate clip or holder.
On the Vision Pro, Apple offers up to 2 hours of general use with video capture and playback, internet browsing, and FaceTime, or 2.5 hours of continuous video playback. The headset can be used while charging the battery, and extra batteries can be purchased for $199 each, but switching between batteries requires shutting down and restarting the device.
Future of Vision Pro
Despite the challenges explained above, Apple seems to be playing a long game, suggesting that costs can come down as the technology matures, and more affordable versions of the product could emerge down the line.
The company is also investing heavily in developer ecosystems to grow the number of innovative apps and experiences that are VisionOS-compatible. Integration with Apple services and hardware like Mac, iCloud, and iPhone will also be a focus point for future innovations in health, education, and even social interactions.
Apple’s entry into the AR/VR market was strategic, joining the likes of Meta, Google, and Microsoft in experimenting with mixed-reality technologies.
The industry is bound to see a rise in competition, innovation, and even lower prices as time and technology advance, and the Apple Vision Pro could force companies to rethink their strategies in terms of design, tech features, and more.
With Apple’s commitment to AR/VR, these technologies can soon become mainstream and accessible for the average consumer, and make special interfaces the norm in everyday life.
Read More: Apple Vision Consumer Model Is Coming Next Year [Apple Vison Pro 2]
Conclusion
The Apple Vision Pro is bringing in a new era of AR/VR technology, combining both in one versatile and innovative device that has the potential to transform productivity, entertainment, and communication.
With time the technology will mature and allow more groundbreaking developments in the future, especially with Apple’s commitment to expanding the device capabilities and features with integration into its existing ecosystem of devices.
Despite the challenges it faces, Vision Pro represents the future of computing and the beginning of a new chapter in the AR and VR scene, and the average person may soon be able to experience a blend of digital experiences and the physical world as a normal part of life.
