Apple has finally unveiled its long-awaited mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on Monday. The device, which combines augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) features, is Apple’s first entry into a new product category since the Apple Watch in 2015.
The Vision Pro headset looks like a pair of sleek ski goggles with a single strip of glass on the front. It has 12 cameras and a digital crown that lets users switch between AR and VR modes. It also has built-in speakers and an external battery pack that can last for two hours on a single charge.
The headset is powered by two chips: the M2, which is Apple’s latest processor for its Mac computers, and the R1, which is a new custom-made chip for real-time sensor processing. The device runs on a new operating system called visionOS, which allows users to see digital content superimposed on their surroundings.
Users can interact with the device using their eyes, hands, and voice. They can also project apps onto the space around them and control them with gestures or voice commands. The device supports Apple’s native apps, such as Safari, FaceTime, Photos, Music, and more. Users can also use the device as an external display for their Mac, play Apple Arcade games, watch movies, and capture videos.
Nice… if you can afford it
One of the most impressive features of the Vision Pro is EyeSight, which lets people nearby see the wearer’s eyes through the device. This creates a more natural and social experience for both the wearer and the people around them.
The Vision Pro is not cheap. It starts at eye-popping $3,499, which is three times more than Meta’s Quest 2 VR headset. However, Apple is targeting a niche market of professionals and enthusiasts who want to experience the cutting-edge technology of mixed reality.
The device will be available in early 2024. Apple said it will work with developers to create more apps and content for the Vision Pro. The company also said it will reveal more details about the device later this year.
The Vision Pro is a bold move by Apple to enter the nascent but growing market of mixed reality. It shows that Apple is still willing to innovate and create new products that challenge the boundaries of technology and human interaction.
