After years of rumors that Apple would launch a virtual reality headset, that reality has arrived. Apple CEO Tim Cook debuted the high-end Vision Pro augmented reality headset on Monday during the WWDC 2023 keynote, of which it was the main announcement.
Apple’s Vision Pro headset will be released in early 2024 and will start at a whopping $3,499.
Like the Meta Quest, the Vision Pro is a standalone headset that runs on its own platform, visionOS. However, it doesn’t work with typical VR/AR controllers; it relies on users’ eye movements, hand tracking, and voice to navigate the interface. The Vision Pro has bottom-mounted cameras that allow it to track small hand gestures.
The Vision Pro has an intriguing design that borrows elements from Apple’s other products. The most impressive design feature is the glass-covered exterior that can show your eyes when someone is around. If you’re busy using the Vision Pro, onlookers will see a preview of your content superimposed over your eyes.
Image: Apple
You can use apps made for the Vision Pro or use them to connect wirelessly to your Mac. The headset can display a 4K display of your Mac’s screen on the headset if you prefer to work that way. Notably, the Vision Pro does not have a built-in battery; rather than trying to pack one in, which would have added bulk and weight, the battery is external and can be stored in your pocket. The battery can power the headset for up to two hours. Alternatively, it can be powered by your Mac.
Image: Apple
Apple spent a lot of time talking about how the Vision Pro could become a big deal in the workspace, with its ability to show multiple screens, including FaceTime in VR, in your room. But it’s also made to help you watch movies and TV content; the headset can dim the surrounding field of view to make it look like you’re in a movie theater. It is also compatible with 3D movies, for all of you avatar fans. Related to this, Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, appeared at Apple’s keynote to say that a special version of Disney Plus will be available on the Vision Pro that offers a much more information-rich experience whether you’re watching sports or Star Wars.
As for gaming, the Vision Pro will be compatible with over 100 Apple Arcade games at launch and can connect to game controllers such as Sony’s DualSense controller. While gaming, you can position and resize the game screen to suit any room you’re in. Thanks to the ability to connect to your Mac, you can also watch other games through it, assuming your Mac is powerful enough to control them.
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