Apple’s highly-anticipated entry into the world of augmented and mixed reality has arrived with the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro at WWDC. This cutting-edge headset pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR), offering versatile capabilities that seamlessly merge the virtual and real worlds. Initial reviews have applauded the Vision Pro’s sleek design, high-quality display, and intuitive gestures, positioning it as an attractive platform for developers. However, concerns regarding pricing, availability, and potential comfort issues when wearing the headset have also been voiced. Nonetheless, the Apple Vision Pro signifies a remarkable leap forward in the AR/MR domain, opening up a world of exciting possibilities for immersive experiences and the interaction with digital content.
Specs & Features
Specs
The highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro, which is rumored to include fans for efficient cooling, offers an external battery option for extended usage. With MicroOLED screens, the Vision Pro delivers impressive visuals with vibrant color and exceptional clarity. It is powered by a dual-chip system, including the Apple Silicon M2 and the advanced R1 AR coprocessor, ensuring smooth performance and seamless integration of augmented reality experiences. Additionally, the device’s Audio Ray Tracing capabilities provide an immersive sound experience, further enhancing the overall AR immersion. Users can utilize the external battery for powering the device, as there is no internal battery included.
Features
The Apple Vision Pro introduces many innovative features that aim to redefine the augmented reality landscape. One notable advancement is the EyeSight functionality, which dynamically showcases the user’s eyes during social interactions, enhancing the immersive experience. Seamlessly integrating with iCloud, users can effortlessly synchronize their data and content across devices, ensuring a seamless AR experience. Moreover, Vision Pro enables the projection of 3D objects received in messages, allowing users to interact with digital content in a truly engaging and tangible way. The device offers a range of control options, including intuitive gestures, precise eye tracking, and support for Apple’s Magic accessories and game controllers. Additionally, with over 100 Apple Arcade games available at launch, users can dive into a diverse collection of captivating gaming experiences. In an exciting collaboration with Disney, the Vision Pro will provide exclusive interface-driven experiences, offering users unique interactions with sports events, the beloved Star Wars franchise, and captivating National Geographic adventures.
Hands-on Thoughts
The consensus on the Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset is mixed, with reviewers expressing a range of opinions about its capabilities and potential. While some reviewers are overwhelmingly positive and impressed by the headset’s hardware, display quality, and user interface, others have reservations about its purpose, price, and impact on the user experience. Overall, there is recognition of Apple’s engineering prowess and attention to detail, but there are also concerns about the device’s market appeal and the broader implications of wearing a mixed reality headset.
Selected Reviews
The main consensus on the Apple Vision Pro headset is that it is a groundbreaking device with high visual quality, comfortable design, and impressive multitasking capabilities using eye tracking and gestures, as highlighted by The Verge team. Jason Snell of Six Colors is mostly impressed with the hardware and intuitive gestures but raises concerns about the concept of Digital Personae and questions its broader purpose and appeal. Similarly, John Gruber of Daring Fireball describes his firsthand experience as impressive, comparing it to the transformative impact of the original iPhone, and emphasizes the potential of VisionOS as a spatial computing platform that redefines technology interaction across various use cases.
My Thoughts
The Apple Vision Pro is undeniably impressive. The sleek design and advanced technology make it a standout device. From what has been showcased, it looks incredibly cool and futuristic. However, one aspect that stands out is its price point, which will likely make it super expensive and less accessible to a broader audience. Nonetheless, Vision Pro’s innovative features and immersive experiences have the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with digital content and our surroundings.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing for the Apple Vision Pro is set at $3499 US, positioning it as a premium offering in the augmented and mixed reality market. However, accessibility may be limited as it is exclusively available in the US upon release. Those interested in experiencing the headset will have the opportunity to try it in Apple stores. While details regarding the availability of developer kits have not been disclosed, it is expected that Apple will provide further information in the near future.
Post Updated to reflect more accurate info about spccs and features and add link to list of articles used in Hands-on summary
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