Apple Vision Pro AR/VR Headset: Exploring the What, Why, and How
Apple’s recent event started with a captivating video and the inspiring message of “Dream it. Chase it. Code it.”
Among the many exciting announcements, the Vision Pro AR/VR headset took center stage, creating a buzz in the tech world. What made this announcement even more intriguing was Apple’s deliberate omission of trending buzzwords like “AI,” “The Metaverse,” or “Web3,” yet managing to ignite curiosity, excitement, and market anticipation. In this article, we will delve into the details and unravel the significance of the Vision Pro headset.
The What: AR, VR, or MR?
The internet is divided when it comes to categorizing the Vision Pro headset. While some refer to it as an AR headset, others label it as VR or AR/VR. Apple simply describes it as a “Spatial Computer” but uses the term “augmented reality” to explain its functionality.
From a technical perspective, Vision Pro aligns more closely with Mixed Reality (MR). It allows users to seamlessly interact with digital elements in the real world, superimposing virtual objects onto their surroundings. By looking through a screen, users can blend reality with virtual reality, creating an immersive experience that surpasses traditional boundaries.
Apple Vision Pro comes with a premium price tag of $3,499!
Innovation you can see, hear, and feel!!!
The Why: Setting it Apart
Remember Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement of “The Metaverse,” which created waves in the tech world. Let’s admit it; Meta clearly has a first-mover advantage.
Quest headset doesn’t sound too expensive now, does it? ;)
While there are so many headsets in the market today, like Meta’s Quest, HTC’s Vive, Microsoft’s HoloLens, Magic Leap 2, and others, they all have different visions and different purposes.
Coming to Vision Pro, it aims to be a productivity tool that could potentially replace our phones in the next 5 to 10 years (Maybe..). Demonstrations at WWDC23 showcased its ability to enhance user interactions in various scenarios, from enjoying movies on a virtual big screen to creating virtual workstations and conducting FaceTime calls.
The device’s technical prowess, including its array of sensors and cutting-edge components, highlights the rationale behind its price point. With features like a custom micro OLED display system, high-resolution cameras, spatial audio, and advanced chips, the Vision Pro delivers an exceptional user experience.
The How: An Ecosystem Play
One of Apple’s greatest strengths lies in its ecosystem, where seamless integration between its products enhances the overall user experience. This approach sets Apple apart from its competitors.
The Vision Pro is built on the foundation of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. Powered by VisionOS, it enables powerful spatial experiences for users. Interactions with the headset feel intuitive and almost magical, as users can control it using their eyes, hands, and voice. Demonstrations showcased selecting elements by gaze, typing through virtual keyboards or dictation, and adjusting the level of immersion with a twist of the Digital Crown.
Immersive environments transcend physical room boundaries, offering dynamic and captivating landscapes that aid focus and reduce clutter. Users can tailor their level of presence or immersion within the environment, adding a personalized touch to their Vision Pro experience.
Creating our first spatial computer required invention across nearly every facet of the system — Mike Rockwell, VP of the Technology Development Group.
Apple’s Vision Pro represents a significant leap forward in spatial computing technology. By combining elements of AR, VR, and MR, Apple is reshaping the way we interact with the digital world. Through a focus on user experience, advanced technologies, and its robust ecosystem, Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation.
“One more thing…”
While everyone is laser-focused on Apple Vision Pro, there’s another noteworthy announcement that seemed to slip under the radar — FaceTime comes to AppleTV.
FaceTime calls will soon be available on Apple TV. This feature will utilize Continuity Camera, a functionality introduced last year that allows an iPhone or iPad to function as a wireless webcam. With the upcoming FaceTime app on Apple TV, users can take advantage of Center Stage, Apple’s innovative AI-powered technology.
That’s a wrap for now. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates and announcements!!
Source: Apple WWDC23.
