Apple’s ‘Vision Pro’ Headset Launches in the U.S.

Paresh Jadhav

12 months ago

Apple has finally unveiled their Vision Pro headset after years of teases, leaks and speculation. At $3,4999 this high-end device boasts high-end hardware as well as an innovative input system allowing users to control it with both hands and eyes – the latter feature is specifically important when controlling it from within a VR environment.

Apple claims the headset runs visionOS, their new operating system designed specifically for spatial computing. Apple promises that over 150 3D titles and new spatial applications such as What the Golf? are included with it.

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Vision Pro Description

At $3,499, Apple’s Vision Pro headset will become the most costly virtual reality (VR) device available. Utilizing its eye-tracking interface and avatar-based FaceTime calls for immersive experiences, it features an eye-tracking system.

Vision Pro will run on an operating system called VisionOS that allows users to control it with eyes, hands, or voice control. Its flexible display technology lets apps expand to fill every corner of space available onscreen.

These headsets enable people to easily access apps and content across various platforms using an iPhone or iPad as a touchpad atop the headset device. According to Apple, Vision Pro supports over one million iOS and iPadOS apps that automatically work with its input system.

Users will be able to watch streaming video from Apple TV+, Disney+ and Max on a screen that “feels 100 feet wide,” as well as playing games such as NBA 2K24 Arcade Edition and Sonic Dream Team on this virtual giant screen.

Design

Vision Pro headset resembles ski goggles in that its front has a curved design, allowing the eyes of its wearer to remain visible when not using an app. This headset was made to create a more natural experience and reduce the uncanny valley effect.

In addition to its display and sensors, this headset features a custom aluminum alloy frame with soft textiles for comfort. Additionally, there will be sizes available that suit all.

Apple claims the Vision Pro headset will support all existing apps for iPhone and iPad, including its own app store. Furthermore, visionOS, an innovative new operating system developed specifically for the headset, will let users take control of it with voice or hand control.

The headset must be connected to an external battery pack, possibly known as the Magic Battery, that can store two hours of charge and is linked by woven cable to the back of its headband – this marks a departure from existing virtual reality (VR) headset designs which include batteries in their strap.

Functionality

Apple is touting this headset as a high-quality VR device designed for working, viewing content and communication. Additionally, it will serve as an external 4K monitor for Mac computers by mirroring their display; furthermore it will run all iPhone and iPad apps available today.

It can also display outside video feeds via exterior and interior cameras using augmented reality to seamlessly incorporate virtual objects into the real world. You can view multiple apps at the same time for multitasking purposes and is compatible with Bluetooth game controllers.

For videoconferencing, participants are represented as life-sized tiles; their audio will come directly from their tile position thanks to spatial audio. When Macworld’s Roman Loyola tested out this headset he experienced no pixelation or playback stutter while remaining comfortable wearing it for about an hour. When released for sale you’ll be able to buy it both from Apple stores as well as their online store.

Pricing

Apple’s headset is more expensive than similar products on the market. Starting at $3,499 with 256GB storage, preorders for this will open up on January 19.

Vision Pro aims to increase productivity and foster more collaborative workspaces by running on visionOS operating system, including an input system that works with eyes, hands and voice input from users.

Apple Arcade provides gamers with over 250 titles to explore with popular game controllers supported by this headset. Users can also pair it with their Mac to use floating monitors for flat apps displayed.

Zeiss “Readers” or prescription Optical Inserts that magnetically attach to the headset offer eye correction for those in need of corrective lenses. A battery pack provides 2 hours of continuous usage, and users can tether their headset for perpetual usage. Each unit comes complete with soft protective case, earbuds and cleaning cloth – plus two adjustable straps which can be swapped out as necessary to tailor a fit that best meets them.