Highlights
- Vision Pro available in the US, offering over 1 million apps including 600 specially designed.
- Features two 1.41-inch micro-OLED displays and Apple M2 chip with R1 co-processor.
- Introduces EyeSight technology for enhanced user presence and environmental awareness.
- Meta announces compatibility with Apple’s spatial video format for Quest VR headsets.
Today marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of mixed reality technology as Apple’s Vision Pro headset officially becomes available for purchase in the United States.
This cutting-edge device is poised to transform the digital landscape, offering users a novel way to engage with content across various domains.
The Vision Pro stands out not only for its innovative design but also for the extensive library of applications that support its launch, indicating a significant leap forward in immersive technology.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Apple Vision Pro on its inaugural launch day.
Tim Cook on Vision Pro Launch
As the curtains rise on the Vision Pro, Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, has shared exciting insights into what users can expect.
With over one million apps accessible at launch, including 600 specifically designed for the Vision Pro, the device promises an unparalleled mixed-reality experience.
Cook’s enthusiasm for the creative efforts of developers is necessary to explore the vast potential of the Vision Pro and to usher in a new era for both Apple and its enthusiastic user base.
Apple Vision Pro: Key Specs
- Display and Resolution: The Vision Pro features two 1.41-inch micro-OLED displays, delivering a total of 23MP and running at 90fps, which can adjust to 96 or 100 FPS based on the content.
- Chipset and Memory: Powered by the Apple M2 system on a chip with a co-processor known as Apple R1 for real-time sensor input processing. The device comes with 16GB of RAM and offers internal storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
- Physical Controls: Includes two physical controls: a Capture Button for recording spatial videos or photos, and a Digital Crown for navigating the system menu and adjusting immersion levels.
- Audio: Equipped with “audio pods” on its side for personalized ray-traced spatial audio, enhancing the immersive experience.
- Power Supply: Can be powered by an external power supply, a USB-C port on a Mac, or a battery pack rated for two hours of use. The battery pack connects via a 12-pin, locking variant of the Lightning connector.
- EyeSight & Person Awareness: Features EyeSight technology, an external display that shows the user’s eyes to others, indicating awareness and never isolating the user from their surroundings.
- Environmental Impact: Designed with environmental considerations, including 100% recycled materials in various components and responsible packaging.
- Custom Optical Inserts: Supports custom optical inserts for users with prescription glasses, developed in partnership with Zeiss. These attach magnetically to the main lens.
A New Dimension of User Interface
“Apple Vision Pro is unlocking the imaginations of our worldwide developer community, and we’re inspired by the range of spatial experiences they’ve created for this exciting new platform,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations.
“With more than 600 new spatial experiences to explore in the all-new App Store, alongside more than 1 million compatible apps across iOS and iPadOS, users can discover a wide array of apps that expand the boundaries of what’s possible.
These incredible apps will change how we experience entertainment, music, and games; spark our imaginations with new ways to learn and explore; unlock productivity like never before; and so much more. Developers are already capturing the promise of spatial computing, and we can’t wait to see what they create next.”
The Vision Pro is set to redefinie user interaction through its three-dimensional user interface, navigable via eye movements, hand gestures, and voice commands.
This leap in technology enables users to transcend the limitations of conventional displays, offering an “infinite canvas” for apps to utilize.
It’s a game-changer for consuming entertainment, sports, TV shows, and films, transforming any room into a personal theater.
Sports and Entertainment Reimagined
The immersive capabilities of the Vision Pro shine brightly in the domain of sports and entertainment.
With applications like PGA TOUR Vision, sports enthusiasts can experience golf in a whole new dimension, featuring real-time shot tracking and 3D models of iconic courses.
“With Apple Vision Pro and the power of spatial computing, Apple is teeing us up to deliver an innovative and immersive way of experiencing professional golf,” said Scott Gutterman, PGA TOUR’s senior vice president of Digital Operations.
“PGA TOUR Vision, the first golf app developed for Apple Vision Pro, takes fans inside the ropes and directly onto the greens of the world’s most iconic courses, from Pebble Beach to TPC Sawgrass, no matter where they are.”
Similarly, the NBA app offers a multi-view feature that allows streaming of up to five live broadcasts, enhancing the viewing experience with real-time stats and scores.
This immersive approach extends to MLB, soccer, and various cable services, ensuring that Vision Pro users always have the best seat in the house.
Meta’s Integration with Spatial Video
Coinciding with the Vision Pro’s debut, Meta has also announced a significant update for its Quest VR headsets, introducing compatibility with Apple’s spatial video format.
This forthcoming update, which will start rolling out in the week of February 7, 2024, will allow users to upload and view spatial videos, further enhancing the immersive experience across platforms.
FAQs
What makes the Apple Vision Pro unique in the mixed reality market?
The Apple Vision Pro stands out with its extensive app library, innovative display technology, and the EyeSight feature that maintains user connection with their surroundings, setting a new benchmark in mixed reality.
Can the Apple Vision Pro be used for professional purposes?
Yes, the Vision Pro is designed for both entertainment and productivity, offering features like spatial computing and an immersive 3D interface that can transform workflows and creative endeavors.
How does the Vision Pro integrate with existing Apple ecosystems?
With compatibility across over 1 million iOS and iPadOS apps, the Vision Pro seamlessly integrates into Apple’s ecosystem, enhancing the user experience with familiar applications in a new spatial dimension.
What are the viewing capabilities of the Vision Pro?
The Vision Pro’s dual micro-OLED displays provide an ultra-high-resolution viewing experience, comparable to a 100-foot cinema screen, promising unparalleled clarity and immersion.
How does Meta’s announcement affect Vision Pro users?
Meta’s support for Apple’s spatial video format on Quest VR headsets expands the Vision Pro’s ecosystem, allowing for a broader range of content and cross-device compatibility, enhancing the mixed reality experience.
What unique visibility feature does the Apple Vision Pro have?
Apple Vision Pro can alert users when the visibility of their hands may be compromised in dark environments, potentially affecting navigation within visionOS.
How does the battery functionality work on the Vision Pro?
The Vision Pro comes with an external battery pack, but it does not support hot-swapping; if the battery depletes, the headset needs to be rebooted, which takes about 37 seconds.
Can others hear what I’m listening to on the Vision Pro?
While the audio quality is high, there is a possibility that others nearby may hear the audio from Vision Pro, suggesting the use of AirPods for a more private listening experience.
What productivity apps will be available on the Vision Pro at launch?
Microsoft is bringing Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Loop to the Vision Pro, leveraging its spatial computing capabilities for enhanced productivity.
Will there be a day one software update for the Vision Pro?
Yes, visionOS 1.0.2 is set to address a WebKit vulnerability and will be available as an update upon receiving the headset.
What is the main issue identified in the Apple Vision Pro headset?
The primary concern with the Apple Vision Pro revolves around its passthrough feature, where users have reported problems such as motion blur and distortion, particularly under specific conditions like low light.
How does the Vision Pro’s passthrough feature perform compared to other headsets?
While the passthrough feature is designed to blend the digital and physical worlds, it currently experiences issues with motion blur, distortion, and color accuracy, falling short of the seamless experience seen in devices like the Meta Quest 3.
What are some key accessories included with the Apple Vision Pro?
The Vision Pro comes with a protective cover, optional optical inserts for glasses wearers, a travel case, light seals, a microfiber cloth, and a dual-loop band for added comfort.
Is there a solution available for the Vision Pro’s display issues?
As of now, there hasn’t been an official fix from Apple for the passthrough feature issues. However, given the company’s track record, a software update could potentially address these concerns.
What are ZEISS Optical Inserts in the Apple Vision Pro?
ZEISS Optical Inserts are specialized corrective lenses designed for Apple’s Vision Pro headset. They are tailored to individual visual needs, including prescription lenses and reading glasses.
How do you pair ZEISS Optical Inserts with the Apple Vision Pro?
To pair the ZEISS Optical Inserts, users need to attach them magnetically to the Vision Pro, then follow a specific process that includes scanning a unique code provided with the lenses.
Is recalibration necessary after pairing new lenses with Vision Pro?
Yes, after attaching new ZEISS Optical Inserts to the Vision Pro, users are required to recalibrate the eye-tracking feature to ensure optimal functionality.
Can the Vision Pro recognize different pairs of ZEISS Optical Inserts?
The Vision Pro headset is equipped to intelligently identify different ZEISS Optical Inserts being used, automatically adjusting settings for the best visual experience.
When are Apple Vision Pro pre-orders expected to arrive?
Customers who pre-ordered the Apple Vision Pro can expect their devices to start arriving as shipments have begun, with the official release set for February 2.
How can I track my Apple Vision Pro shipment?
To track your Vision Pro order, enroll in UPS My Choice for detailed package tracking or use the UPS website’s “Track by Reference Number” feature.
What special feature does the ZEISS partnership add to the Apple Vision Pro?
The collaboration with ZEISS offers Vision Pro users specialized optical inserts, enhancing visual experience with a unique pairing process for authenticity and precision.
Are the sales figures for the Apple Vision Pro available?
While official numbers aren’t released, it’s estimated that between 160,000 to 180,000 units of the Vision Pro were sold during the initial pre-order weekend.
Vision Pro Launch: Apple Has Advice For Those With Medical Conditions. Details?
The Vision Pro is for all apple loves , including the ones who wear glasses but those with a medical condition, Apple has advice for them.
“If you have a pre-existing medical condition, consult with a medical provider before using Apple Vision Pro.
Using this device with certain medical conditions might aggravate symptoms or increase the risk of injury or discomfort,” Apple said in an advisory published last week.
Apple has also highlighted that if a potential customer is experiencing symptoms related to a medical condition, consult with a medical provider before using Apple Vision Pro.
“If you are pregnant, exercise additional caution when using Apple Vision Pro, as pregnancy may increase the risk of nausea or loss of balance,” the company said.
“Apple Vision Pro and its battery contain magnets or components that emit radio waves, which could affect the operation of nearby electronics, including cardiac pacemakers, hearing aids, and defibrillators,” Apple added.
What are the list of conditions that apple has advised for ?
List of conditions that might aggravate symptoms or increase the risk of injury or discomfort include:
Migraines or chronic headaches
Dizziness or vertigo
Eye or vision conditions, such as binocular vision conditions
Psychological conditions
Inner ear conditions
History of dry eyes, itchiness, or swelling of the eyelids
Skin allergies or sensitivities
Seizures
Balance or gait conditions
What are the kind of users who are problem free during apple Vision pro launch ?
Customers who wear prescription glasses may not have a problem but they will need a prescription for Zeiss-made optical inserts.
A reporter for The Times of India Tech-Gadgets Now was among the first ones to have tried the Vision Pro when it was launched. Apple quickly took the power of the glasses and customised them quickly to suit the wearer.
There is an option to include optical inserts for individuals who wear glasses. These optical inserts will enable users to wear the headset without their glasses. However, these inserts will be sold separately.
When to stop using Apple Vision Pro ?
Stop using Apple Vision Pro and consult with your medical provider:
If you experience symptoms related to a medical condition.
If your medical provider confirms that it’s safe for you to use Apple Vision Pro, but you experience severe or persistent physical discomfort, motion sickness, visual discomfort, skin irritation, or psychological symptoms.
If you notice swelling, itchiness, skin irritation, or other skin reactions while using your device or after using the device, stop using it. If symptoms persist, consult with your medical provider.
Also Read: Apple Vision Pro to Use ZEISS Customisable Optical Inserts: A Guide to the Pairing Process
Also Read: Apple Vision Pro Launch: Pre-orders To Start Shipping Soon, Collaboration with ZEISS, and More
Also Read: Apple Vision Pro Headset’s Passthrough Feature Could Have a Few Problems
Also Read: Apple Vision Pro: New Features Revealed, visionOS 1.0.2 Update, and Microsoft Office Integration