Getting Our Hands on Apple Vision Pro
The long-awaited Apple Vision Pro has finally made its way into our hands. As veterans in the virtual and augmented reality domain since 2015, we've seen our fair share of headsets. Yet, Apple’s latest entry in what they term 'spatial computing' nudged us to take a closer look, despite our usual skepticism about so-called revolutionary advancements.
Design and Build
First off, it's impossible not to admire the design of the Vision Pro. Apple has outdone itself in aesthetics, crafting what is undeniably the most visually stunning headset on the market. It feels luxurious to the touch—reflective of its premium price tag. Holding the Vision Pro, you immediately sense its high-end construction and meticulous attention to detail.
Setup Experience
Setting up the Vision Pro, particularly the eye calibration, was surprisingly straightforward. Unlike many other headsets where initial configuration can be tedious, Apple has simplified the process, making it accessible even for those new to high-tech gadgets.
Immersive Experience
Calling the Vision Pro immersive would be an understatement. It delivers an unparalleled mixed reality (MR) experience that blurs the lines between the digital and physical worlds more effectively than any device we've encountered before. It's not just immersive; it's captivating, pulling you into experiences that feel as close to real as one can get with a headset.
Hand tracking was excellent and having several cameras around the device made the experience smooth.
Comfort and Wearability
However, the Vision Pro is not without its shortcomings. The device is heavy, and even with the better strap, there’s a noticeable strain during prolonged use. The alternative, more stylish strap sacrifices support for aesthetics and provides even worse support.
Tradeoffs and Technical Decisions
Apple excels at navigating complex technical and conceptual tradeoffs, making wise choices with the Vision Pro. Their marketing emphasizes media experiences optimized for stationary use, which is a strategic decision aligning with the device's strengths.
The choice to use hand gestures for control simplifies interaction, though it introduces some lag in rapid movements. During fast-paced games, this lag becomes noticeable. However, this lag becomes a non-issue in slower, more methodical interactions, where the immersive quality of the device shines.
The inclusion of an external battery, connected via a cord, strikes a balance between maintaining a lighter headset and extended use, albeit at the cost of some awkwardness in handling the battery pack. If you are standing, you will have to stuff it somewhere.
Using cameras and pass-through technology is the correct choice to create an immersive mixed-reality - sorry, I mean spatial computing, experience at this moment. Finnish company Varjo has been leading the way in this regard, but we do have to admit that the pass-through quality Apple can provide is par none.
Market Fit and Pricing
It's clear that the Vision Pro isn’t aimed at the average consumer. Its steep price point places it firmly in the realm of tech enthusiasts and professionals who not only appreciate cutting-edge technology but can also afford it. While it offers an exceptional experience, it's not yet the device that will bring spatial computing to every household. The Vision Pro remains a niche product for a select market—a luxury for those curious and affluent enough to explore its potential.
Last Words
The Apple Vision Pro is a testament to Apple’s prowess in design and technology innovation. It’s the most beautiful, immersive headset currently available, crafted for those who cherish the forefront of technology.
However, its weight and high cost keep it from being the ubiquitous device that might live up to the mass-market potential once envisioned for such technology. For now, the Vision Pro is best suited for professionals and technology aficionados looking to delve into the next dimension of digital interaction.