In a much-anticipated announcement, Apple has officially revealed its long-rumored AR headset, named the ‘Apple Vision Pro.’ During the highly anticipated WWDC 2023 event on June 5th, the tech giant delighted fans by bringing back the iconic ‘one more thing’ segment to showcase this groundbreaking device.
Despite its resemblance to ski goggles, the Apple Vision Pro boasts a remarkable array of features. With a complete 3D interface, the device can be seamlessly controlled using hand gestures, eye movements, and voice commands. Upon wearing the headset, users are greeted with a captivating display of their apps integrated into their surroundings, creating a floating iPad/MacBook-like interface.
This unique approach prompted Apple CEO Tim Cook to declare it as “the first Apple product you look through, and not at.”
Moreover, the Apple Vision Pro offers the flexibility to switch between augmented reality and full virtual reality experiences using a dial. Leveraging passthrough video technology, users can observe the real world while simultaneously projecting 3D objects into their immediate environment.
Renowned tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) provided additional insights into the device’s features, explaining that it expands and transforms the user’s space volumetrically. By turning the digital crown, the environment surrounding the user can be extended further, while hand and eye gestures facilitate movement and scrolling. Voice controls are also seamlessly integrated, allowing users to simply look at a search field and begin speaking.
In terms of design, the Apple Vision Pro combines elements of the Apple Watch, iPhone, and Mac. Its front features a single piece of 3D glass, outward-facing cameras, sensors, a button for capturing photos and videos, and a Digital Crown. The device’s aluminum frame is modular, accommodating different face shapes and sizes. It also includes flexible straps with auto parts for spatial audio near the ears, magnet attachment, and micro-adjustments for optimal comfort. A 3D knitted headband with cushioning enhances the overall fit, while Zeiss optical inserts cater to varying vision requirements. The device offers over two hours of battery life, connects via a proprietary woven cable and magnetic puck, and boasts more than a 4K display for each eye.
While tech enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of the Apple Vision Pro, they will have to exercise patience, as the device is scheduled for release next year. Starting at a price point of $3,499, the headset’s substantial cost has prompted discussions among fans on social media. Some Twitter users expressed amusement, suggesting that the preceding product demonstration was a means of justifying the hefty price tag.
Others playfully speculated about additional features, such as an “I’m rich” app that could display wealth on the external view instead of the wearer’s eyes. Despite the cost, many expressed interest and eagerly await video reviews to determine whether the device is a worthwhile investment upon its launch.
With the unveiling of the Apple Vision Pro, Apple is poised to make a significant impact on the augmented reality market, combining cutting-edge technology with its signature design aesthetics and user-friendly features.
