- All Apple Devices
- Mixed Reality Headsets
- Apple Vision Pro
Apple Vision Pro
Apple Vision Pro is an upcoming mixed-reality headset developed by Apple Inc. It was announced on June 5, 2023, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) and is set to be available for purchase in early 2024 in the United States. It is Apple’s first entry into a new major product category since the Apple Watch.
The Vision Pro is described as a “spatial computer” by Apple, integrating digital media with the real world and allowing interactions through motion gestures, eye tracking, and voice input. It is a standalone device running visionOS, a derivative of iOS designed for extended reality software.
History:
- In May 2015, Apple acquired German augmented reality (AR) company Metaio.
- Mike Rockwell formed the Technology Development Group, which worked on AR demos and contributed to ARKit.
- In April 2017, augmented reality and virtual reality expert Jeff Norris was hired.
- In November 2017, Apple acquired Canadian AR company Vrvana.
- Rumors and reports about the Vision Pro began surfacing in 2022.
- The headset was announced at WWDC on June 5, 2023.
- Apple acquired AR headset startup Mira on June 6, 2023.
What is Apple Vision Pro?
Apple Vision Pro is a first-generation, standalone, cutting-edge mixed-reality(Augmented and Virtual Reality) headset or spatial computer that revolutionizes the way we interact with digital content and our physical environment. Standalone means it can work without your iPad, iPhone, or Mac Computer.
Powered by visionOS, Apple’s first spatial operating system, the Vision Pro headset offers a seamless blend of the digital and physical worlds.
This article will explore the features and capabilities of the Apple Vision Pro headset, from its innovative operating system to its immersive entertainment experiences, collaborative capabilities, and advanced camera functionalities.
Apple’s visionOS:
At the heart of the Apple Vision Pro headset lies visionOS, a spatial operating system that combines the foundations of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. With visionOS, users can navigate the headset’s interface using their eyes, hands, and voice, creating intuitive and magical interactions.
By simply looking at an element, users can tap their fingers together to select it, utilize the virtual keyboard or dictation for typing, and seamlessly control the headset’s functionalities.
Features of the Apple Vision Pro:
- Apps:
With Apple’s Vision Pro headset, users have an infinite canvas to transform how they use their favorite apps. The headset allows users to arrange apps anywhere in their physical space, scaling them to the perfect size. This feature enables users to create their dream workspace while staying present in the real world.
Popular apps like Safari, Photos, Music, and Messages have been optimized for Vision Pro and can be seamlessly synchronized with other Apple devices through iCloud. Additionally, a new App Store dedicated to visionOS will offer groundbreaking apps designed specifically for the headset, as well as compatible iPad and iPhone apps.
- Environments:
Vision Pro introduces environments that magically transform users’ surroundings with stunning landscapes, expanding the dimensions of their physical space. These environments create the perfect backdrop for various activities, such as focusing on tasks or enjoying a moment of mindfulness. Furthermore, Vision Pro brings 3D objects to life, allowing users to interact with virtual objects as if they were right in front of them.
- Mac Integration:
The Apple Vision Pro headset offers seamless integration with Mac devices through the Mac Virtual Display feature. Users can wirelessly bring their Mac into the Vision Pro environment, placing it anywhere in space and utilizing the headset as a private, portable 4K display.
This integration enhances productivity and enables users to work on complex spreadsheets or long emails with the assistance of Bluetooth accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad.
- Entertainment:
Vision Pro turns any room into a personal theater, providing an immersive entertainment experience. Users can expand movies, shows, and games to the perfect size while enjoying Spatial Audio, which makes them feel like part of the action. With more pixels per eye than a 4K TV, Vision Pro delivers stunning content regardless of location.
The Cinema Environment feature allows users to watch shows and movies at the intended frame rate and aspect ratio, while Apple Immersive Videos offer 180-degree 3D 8K recordings with Spatial Audio, providing an unparalleled level of immersion. Additionally, Vision Pro supports Apple TV+ and other streaming services for access to favorite movies and TV shows.
- Camera Capabilities:
As Apple’s first 3D camera, Vision Pro enables users to capture spatial photos and videos in 3D, bringing cherished moments to life like never before. The headset’s top button allows for quick and easy capture, and during recording, it provides a clear indicator to those around the user. Spatial photos and videos offer incredible depth, allowing users to expand them and explore every detail. Furthermore, panoramas wrap around the user, recreating the feeling of being in the original location of the capture.
- Collaborative Features:
Vision Pro simplifies collaboration and connectivity, regardless of location. FaceTime video tiles appear life-size and expand as new participants join the call, creating a sense of presence in the room. Collaborative document editing is also possible within FaceTime, with the option to use apps simultaneously with colleagues.
Spatial Audio enhances the natural feel of conversations by placing each participant’s voice in the location of their video tile. Additionally, Vision Pro’s digital Persona feature allows others to see the user’s face and hand movements while on a FaceTime call, creating a dynamic representation.
- Design and Comfort:
The Apple Vision Pro headset boasts an elegant and ergonomic design. Its enclosure features a singular piece of three-dimensionally formed laminated glass, seamlessly flowing into an aluminum alloy frame that curves around the user’s face.
The Light Seal provides a precise fit while blocking out stray light, ensuring an immersive experience.
The Head Band offers cushioning, breathability, and adjustability with the Fit Dial for a personalized fit.
The external battery supports up to 2 hours of use, and when plugged in, it can be used throughout the day.
Sound is delivered through speakers positioned close to the ears, offering rich Spatial Audio while maintaining awareness of the user’s surroundings.
An outward display reveals the user’s eyes, signaling when apps are in use or the user is fully immersed.
Conclusion:
The Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset, powered by visionOS, introduces a new era of spatial computing. Its advanced features, intuitive interactions, and immersive experiences redefine how users interact with digital content and their physical environment.
From seamless app integration and transformative environments to immersive entertainment and powerful camera capabilities, the Apple Vision Pro delivers an unprecedented mixed-reality experience, making it Apple’s most ambitious and innovative product to date.
Frequently Asked Questions on Apple Vision Pro
How does the Apple Vision Pro work?
Unlike most VR headsets that require physical controllers, the Apple Vision Pro is different. It uses a ton of powerful sensors and cameras to scan your environment, and your eyes and also listen to your voice so you can comfortably control it or what you do with your fingers, eyes, and voice.
What can the Apple Vision Pro do?
The Apple Vision Pro is a mixed-reality headset that allows users to integrate digital media with the real world and interact with the system using motion gestures, eye tracking, and voice input. It serves as a “spatial computer” that enables a variety of functionalities, including:
- Mixed Reality Experience: The Vision Pro offers a mixed reality view where digital apps and media can appear to float in the user’s real-world surroundings, blending virtual content seamlessly with the environment.
- Motion Gestures: Users can control and interact with the system by making motion gestures, such as hand movements, to manipulate virtual objects or navigate through the user interface.
- Eye Tracking: The headset incorporates eye-tracking technology to track the user’s eye movements, enabling features like foveated rendering and enhanced interactivity.
- Voice Input: Users can utilize voice commands and speech recognition to control various functions and access features within the Vision Pro.
- Real-Time Interaction: The headset provides real-time interaction with digital content, allowing users to engage with apps, games, and immersive experiences seamlessly.
- Integration with iOS Ecosystem: The Vision Pro runs on visionOS, which is derived from iOS core frameworks, enabling compatibility with a wide range of familiar iPhone and iPad apps. Users can access and use these apps within the mixed reality environment.
- External Peripherals: The Vision Pro supports external Bluetooth peripherals, such as Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad, and gamepads, enhancing the input options for users.
- App Development and Compatibility: Apple has aimed to attract developers to create software and services specifically for the Vision Pro. It is expected that a vast number of apps, including productivity tools, games, and entertainment apps, will be compatible with the headset.
Why is the Apple Vision Pro so expensive?
The Apple Vision Pro is priced at a higher range due to several factors that contribute to its cost:
- Advanced Technology: The Vision Pro incorporates cutting-edge technology, including high-resolution dual micro-OLED displays, complex sensors, multiple cameras, and sophisticated tracking systems. These components involve significant research and development costs, as well as manufacturing expenses.
- Premium Materials and Design: Apple is known for its emphasis on high-quality materials and sleek designs. The Vision Pro likely features premium materials, such as durable metals and high-quality lenses, which can increase production costs.
- Extensive Features and Functionality: The Vision Pro offers a wide range of features and functionalities, including motion gestures, eye tracking, voice input, and integration with the iOS ecosystem. These advanced capabilities require robust hardware and software development, which contribute to the overall cost.
- Limited Market Availability: As a standalone mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro caters to a specific market segment, which can limit the economies of scale. The initial production volume might be relatively low, leading to higher manufacturing costs per unit.
- Brand Reputation and Perception: Apple is recognized as a premium brand, and its products often come with a premium price tag. The company’s reputation for innovation, quality, and user experience contributes to the perceived value of the Vision Pro, allowing Apple to position it as a high-end offering.
Will the Apple Vision Pro get cheaper in the future?
It is challenging to predict with certainty whether the Apple Vision Pro will become cheaper in the future. However, it is worth considering a few factors that could influence its pricing:
- Technological Advancements: Over time, advancements in technology can lead to cost reductions in manufacturing processes and components. This may potentially contribute to lower production costs and, in turn, a decrease in the retail price of the product.
- Market Competition: As the market for mixed reality headsets evolves and more companies enter the space, competition could intensify. Increased competition often leads to price competitiveness, as companies strive to attract customers with competitive pricing strategies. This could result in price adjustments for the Apple Vision Pro or the introduction of more affordable alternatives in the market.
- Product Iterations: Apple typically releases new versions of its products, often incorporating improvements and refinements based on user feedback and technological advancements. With the introduction of newer iterations, older models may experience price reductions.
Will the Apple Vision Pro have or play VR games?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro is expected to support virtual reality (VR) games. As a standalone mixed-reality headset, it is designed to provide immersive experiences that integrate digital content with the real world.
The device features 6 degrees of freedom (6DoF) inside-out tracking, photogrammetry, and gesture recognition through built-in cameras and LiDAR, enabling users to interact with virtual environments and play VR games.
Additionally, Apple has been actively working with developers and gaming companies to attract software and content for the Vision Pro, indicating a focus on providing a gaming experience as part of its capabilities.
Will the Apple Vision Pro replace a TV?
While the Vision Pro offers a high-resolution display and immersive audio capabilities, it is more focused on providing a spatial computing experience where digital content is integrated with the real world. The Vision Pro’s primary purpose is to enable users to interact with digital content in a mixed-reality environment, rather than serving as a direct replacement for a TV. Traditional TVs still provide a more convenient and communal viewing experience for larger audiences, while the Vision Pro is designed for individual use and immersive content consumption in a personal setting.
Will the Apple Vision Pro play games?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro is capable of playing games. As a standalone mixed-reality headset, it is designed to provide an immersive gaming experience by integrating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) capabilities.
The Vision Pro runs on visionOS, a derivative of iOS designed for extended reality software. It supports a range of gaming applications and experiences, including those available on the Apple Arcade platform. Apple has also collaborated with Unity Technologies to support the Unity engine on visionOS, opening up possibilities for developers to create engaging and interactive games specifically for the Vision Pro.
With its powerful hardware, including the Apple M2 system on a chip and 6DoF inside-out tracking, the Vision Pro can offer high-quality graphics, realistic spatial audio, and immersive gameplay. The device’s built-in cameras and LiDAR, along with gesture recognition and photogrammetry, enable users to interact with the virtual gaming environment using natural movements and gestures.
In summary, the Apple Vision Pro is designed to provide a compelling gaming experience, making use of its advanced technology and immersive capabilities.
Will the Apple Vision Pro replace the iPhone?
No, the Apple Vision Pro is not intended to replace the iPhone. While both devices are developed by Apple, they serve different purposes and cater to different user needs.
The Apple Vision Pro is a standalone mixed-reality headset designed for immersive experiences, combining virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). It provides a spatial computing platform where digital content is integrated with the real world, allowing users to interact with the environment using motion gestures, eye tracking, and voice input. The Vision Pro runs on visionOS, a derivative of iOS, but its primary focus is on extended reality software and experiences.
On the other hand, the iPhone is a versatile smartphone that offers a wide range of features and functionalities beyond extended reality. It serves as a communication device, a portable computing platform, and a hub for various apps, including gaming, social media, productivity, and much more. The iPhone’s compact size, touchscreen interface, and cellular connectivity make it a versatile tool for daily tasks, communication, and on-the-go usage.
While the Apple Vision Pro provides a unique and immersive experience, it is not designed to replace the iPhone’s broader functionality and portability. The two devices serve different purposes and cater to different user needs.
Will the Apple Vision Pro be worth it?
The worthiness of the Apple Vision Pro depends on personal preferences, needs, and budget. It offers a unique mixed reality experience, blending digital content with the real world. The device boasts high-resolution micro-OLED displays, advanced tracking systems, spatial audio, and built-in cameras.
The availability and quality of content and applications specific to Vision Pro are important factors to consider. However, the device comes with a premium price tag, so evaluating whether the features and experiences justify the cost is essential. Future development and potential updates could add value over time. Ultimately, determining if the Apple Vision Pro is worth it is subjective and requires considering individual interests and intended use cases.
When will the Apple Vision Pro be released?
The Apple Vision Pro will be available or is set to be released in early 2024 in the United States.
How will the Apple Vision Pro change the world?
The Apple Vision Pro has the potential to change the world by introducing a new era of mixed reality experiences. With its advanced technology and features, the headset aims to integrate digital media seamlessly into the real world, revolutionizing how we interact with information and entertainment.
By combining spatial computing, motion gestures, eye tracking, and voice input, the Vision Pro offers a unique and immersive user experience. It opens up possibilities for enhanced productivity, communication, gaming, and entertainment.
The device’s capabilities, along with its potential for future advancements and integration with other Apple products and services, make it a significant step forward in the evolution of extended reality and could have a profound impact on various industries and aspects of our daily lives.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with Windows?
Microsoft’s apps including the complete Office suite (that includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint apps) will be fully compatible with the Vision Pro as well as multiple video-calling apps, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex.
Is the Apple Vision Pro suitable for nearsightedness?
Since the device supports custom optical inserts for users with prescription glasses, it is possible that it can also accommodate nearsighted individuals. By attaching the appropriate optical inserts, individuals with nearsightedness may be able to experience corrected vision while using the Apple Vision Pro.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with other devices?
Apple Vision Pro is a standalone hardware device that has its own processors and does not require a connection to a Mac or an iPhone to operate, but it is able to interface with other Apple devices.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with prescription or reading glasses?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro supports custom optical inserts for users with prescription glasses. These optical inserts can be attached magnetically to the main lens of the headset. The inserts are developed in partnership with Carl Zeiss AG, a renowned optics company. This feature allows individuals who wear prescription or reading glasses to use the Apple Vision Pro comfortably and enjoy an immersive mixed-reality experience without the need to wear their glasses simultaneously.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with AirPods?
Yes, you can also connect it to Apple AirPods if you need truly private sound.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with PCs?
Yes. The Vision Pro is primarily meant to work as a standalone and contained device, but you will be able to connect like an external display to your existing Mac computer and it’ll then function as a kind of 3D external display for your face.
Is the Apple Vision Pro compatible with MacBooks?
Yes. The Vision Pro is primarily meant to work as a standalone and contained device, but you will be able to connect it to your existing Mac computer and it’ll then function as a kind of 3D external display for your face. The Vision Pro will also support Bluetooth accessories like a wireless mouse or keyboard in the event that you want to use it more like a traditional computer.
Can the Apple Vision Pro be used without an iPhone?
Yes, as a standalone AR/VR device, it can work without an iPhone, iPad, or Mac computer.
Does the Apple Vision Pro have a battery?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro has a battery, but not a built-in battery. It can be powered by an external power supply, a USB-C port on a Mac, or a battery pack. The Apple Vision Pro provides approximately 2 hours of battery life. Based on its size, the internal battery capacity is estimated to be within 20,000mAh (74Wh), resulting in an overall power consumption of around 30W.
Is the Apple Vision Pro wireless?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro is a wireless headset. It operates without the need for tethering to a computer or other external devices. The headset is designed to provide a standalone mixed-reality experience, meaning it has its own internal processing capabilities, sensors, and built-in cameras.
It uses wireless connectivity to interact with other devices or networks, such as connecting to the internet for content streaming or accessing online services. The wireless nature of the Apple Vision Pro allows for greater freedom of movement and flexibility during usage, enhancing the overall user experience.
The headset has a charging cord that attaches to its side. When connected to power, the Vision Pro can run all day just like a desktop computer. It does have a battery pack that’s located away from the body of the headset (so you don’t have to carry that weight on your neck). When running only on its battery, Apple claims that it’ll have about two hours of run time.
Can the Apple Vision Pro play PC games?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro is capable of playing games. Apple mentioned you’ll be able to enjoy over 100 Apple Arcade games on day one.
Can the Apple Vision Pro be used outside?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro can be used outside. It is designed to be a standalone mixed-reality headset that can be used in various environments, including outdoor settings.
However, it is important to note that the specific usage conditions and limitations may vary depending on factors such as lighting conditions, environmental factors, and the requirements of the applications or experiences being used with the headset.
Are Apple Vision Pro glasses see-through?
No, the Apple Vision Pro glasses are not see-through like a pair of goggles or glasses. The device uses micro-OLED displays to present visuals to the user, and these displays are not transparent like traditional glasses.
When wearing the Apple Vision Pro, the user’s field of view is filled with virtual content and visuals, creating an immersive environment. But, high-quality cameras pass 3D video of the environment to the user through a pair of pixel-dense displays.
Can the Apple Vision Pro be worn with glasses?
Yes, the Apple Vision Pro can be worn with glasses. The headset supports custom optical inserts that are designed to accommodate users with prescription glasses. These lenses can be attached magnetically to the main lens of the Apple Vision Pro.
Apple has partnered with Carl Zeiss AG to develop these optical inserts, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for users who wear glasses. This feature allows individuals with prescription eyewear to enjoy the mixed reality experiences provided by the Apple Vision Pro without the need to remove their glasses.
The catch is that these special inserts will be sold separately, and no pricing has yet been announced. The reason why you can’t wear glasses is that your eyes need to be very close to the inner lenses to accurately track your eye movements.
Can the Apple Vision Pro replace a laptop?
The Apple Vision Pro is primarily designed as a standalone mixed-reality headset and is not intended to directly replace a laptop. While it offers computing capabilities and the ability to run certain applications, its primary focus is on providing an immersive mixed-reality experience rather than serving as a full-fledged productivity device like a laptop.
The Vision Pro allows users to interact with digital content in a spatial environment, combining virtual elements with the real world. It supports a range of applications and features such as gaming, media consumption, communication, and augmented reality experiences. However, it may not offer the same level of productivity and versatility as a laptop, especially for tasks that require extensive typing, complex software applications, or multitasking.
While the Apple Vision Pro can enhance certain aspects of productivity, such as virtual collaboration and immersive data visualization, it is best seen as a complementary device rather than a direct replacement for a laptop.
Can you interact with people around you while wearing the headset?
Yes. The Vision Pro has a special feature called EyeSight that is designed to make it less awkward when interacting with real people while wearing the headset.
When somebody approaches you while you’re wearing the Vision Pro, the headset will go transparent allowing you to see the person approaching and allowing them to see your eyes. If you’re in a fully immersive experience, like watching a movie or playing a game, the headset will give “visual cues” to the people who are approaching you to let them know what you are experiencing.
Does Vision Pro come in multiple sizes?
Yes. The Vision Pro is designed as a modular system with flexible straps and a swappable headband that’s available in multiple sizes. When purchasing the Vision Pro, you’ll be able to pick the best size for your face.
Full Technical Specifications
Vision Pro General Info
| Developer | US$3,499 |
| Manufacturer | Luxshare |
| Device Type | Standalone mixed reality headset |
| Release date |
Early 2024 in the United States 2024 in other countries, such as the UK, Japan, India, Brazil, Canada, and Australia |
| Launch price | US$3,499 |
| Processor | Apple M2(5nm) system on a chip and Apple R1 co-processor used for real-time sensor input processing. |
| Power | External power supply, a USB-C port on a Mac, or a battery pack |
| Software |
Operating system: visionOS (Darwin (kernel)-based, derived primarily from iOS core frameworks and XR-specific frameworks User interface: 3D UI with finger tracking, eye tracking, and speech recognition Floating windows for apps arranged in 3D space Supports Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad, gamepads, and other external Bluetooth peripherals Compatibility with hundreds of thousands of familiar iPhone and iPad apps Support for Microsoft 365 suite, Adobe Lightroom, FaceTime, Webex, Zoom, and Disney+ app Compatibility with over 100 Apple Arcade games Supports Unity engine and WebXR in Safari. |
Vision Pro Hardware Info
| Display |
90/96 Hz Hz Refresh rates Laminated glass display front 4K micro-OLED displays with a total of 23 megapixels, each with a size of a postage stamp |
| Sound |
Stereo speakers, 6 microphones Speakers inside the headband for virtual surround sound |
| Input |
6DoF inside-out tracking, photogrammetry, and gesture recognition through 12 built-in cameras and LiDAR Five sensors, six microphones, and 12 cameras, Face scanning for generating a realistic avatar |
| Extras |
Custom optical inserts supported for users with prescription glasses Adjustable headband with an aluminum frame covered by a flexible cushion Aluminum frame covered by a flexible cushion |
Additional Features
| Extras |
Iris scanner named Optic ID for authentication Speaker inside the headband with virtualized surround sound Digital crown for controlling virtual background and field of view Outward-facing display called EyeSight to indicate immersion level and environmental awareness |
Disclaimer Note
We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 101% correct.
