Apple has recently unveiled its latest device, Vision Pro, a high-priced headset that offers a total virtual reality experience as well as augmented reality, projecting digital images on real-world settings. Despite the skepticism that usually surrounds reporters, many of them raved about their firsthand experience, impressed by the technology that Apple has packed into the goggles-like headset.
Vision Pro showcases a highly sophisticated device that is both easy to set up and incredibly intuitive to use. The setup process involves an iPhone taking assessments of a user’s eyes and ears, with calibration being required for those who wear prescription glasses. However, Apple has promised that the process will not be complicated.
Controlling Vision Pro is exceptionally easy, with a button above the right goggle that allows users to access a virtual screen of apps such as photos, messaging, phone calls, video streaming, and web browsing. Opening an app requires the user to look straight at it and pinch a thumb and finger together. Closing an application can then be done with a finger pinch, or it can be moved to the side by holding two fingers together and moving them in a specific direction.
Apple’s well-curated demonstration was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the potential business benefits of Vision Pro, such as increased productivity, collaboration, and video conferencing during remote work. The headset can also immerse the user in stunning visuals, insert them into past memories recorded with one of the device’s 12 cameras, and deliver a 3D movie experience as if they were sitting in an IMAX theater while sitting on their couch.
However, priced at $3,500, Vision Pro may be an unaffordable luxury item for most households, at least initially. Michael Liedtke from the Associated Press believes that Vision Pro may be Apple’s test bed for mixed reality, encouraging the development of more apps specially designed to take advantage of the technology. By doing this, mixed reality products with similarly compelling features may be developed at lower price points in the future. The potential downsides of using the device lie in deepening screen addictions, leading to a lack of real-world interactions among humans.
