Apple’s Vision Pro: A Closer Look at the Controversial VR Headset
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step into the world of virtual reality, Apple’s latest product launch might just be your ticket. The tech giant has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Vision Pro headset, and it’s causing quite a stir. With a price tag of $3,500, this hands-only “spatial computer” is not for the faint of heart or the light of wallet. But fear not, because Apple is offering demos of the Vision Pro in stores across the U.S., giving everyday consumers a chance to experience this groundbreaking technology firsthand.
Booking a demo is no easy feat, however. Even though it had only been a few days since the launch on February 2nd, I had to book my demo a week in advance. Whether it’s a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, you must plan ahead before securing a time slot. To book a demo, simply visit the official Vision Pro page and find a store near you. But hurry, as demos are currently only available until February 18th, and Apple has not announced when they will end these sessions.
I chose to visit the 5th Avenue Apple Store in Manhattan for my demo, where I was greeted by a crowd of eager customers. The store was buzzing with excitement as people eagerly awaited their turn to try on the Vision Pro headset. The staff, known as “Geniuses,” were on hand to assist and guide us through the demo process. Each station had its own tray magnetically attached to the seat, and the headsets were distributed on bamboo platters, adding a touch of elegance to the experience.
The demo itself lasted 30 minutes and was highly curated and limited. Before trying on the headset, Apple scanned my face to ensure a proper fit. Once fitted, I was guided through the steps of strapping in, adjusting the seal, and controlling the headset. The gestures were simple and intuitive, with only three to remember: pinch to select, wave to cycle through web pages or photo reels, and pinch and drag with two hands to resize windows.
One of the highlights of the demo was the emphasis on spatial video and 3D content viewing. Apple showcased “spatial” images and videos taken with both the Vision Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro, demonstrating the superior quality of the headset’s images. I also had the opportunity to watch a short trailer for the 3D version of The Super Mario Bros. Movie in the headset’s cinema mode, which was an immersive and captivating experience.
In addition to exploring spatial content, I was given a few minutes to browse Safari and try out other apps of my choice. The headset allowed me to navigate through a digital environment, switching between full-color passthrough and faux-3D visual environments. The comfort of the headset was also noteworthy, as it felt lightweight and well-designed.
Throughout the demo, Apple’s staff was eager to hear my thoughts and gauge my interest in purchasing the Vision Pro. It was clear that this product launch was a significant effort on Apple’s part, with multiple demos happening simultaneously. The company is clearly invested in showcasing the capabilities of their non-VR VR headset and convincing potential buyers of its value.
Overall, my experience with the Vision Pro was impressive. The headset delivered on its promises of immersive spatial experiences and high-quality visuals. While the price may be steep for many, Apple’s demo sessions provide a unique opportunity to try out this groundbreaking technology without making a hefty investment. So if you’re curious about the future of virtual reality, head to your nearest Apple Store and see what all the fuss is about.