Apple Vision Pro Headsets Prompt Customer Returns Due to Health Issues
Apple’s highly anticipated Vision Pro headsets, which were released for sale on February 2, have already faced a wave of customer returns due to health issues. The futuristic headset, priced at $3,500, was marketed as the “ultimate entertainment device,” but it seems that some users are experiencing severe health problems after wearing the device.
Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints from users who have reported headaches, eye strain, and even burst blood vessels after using the Vision Pro. One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed their disappointment, saying, “Apple Vision Pro is great for some things, but there is not a single day that has gone by that I used it that it did not cause me eye strain and a headache.”
Early reports suggested that the Vision Pro was a massive success, with an estimated 200,000 units sold during the pre-order period alone. However, it appears that many customers are now regretting their purchases. The weight of the device, estimated to be between one and 1.5 pounds, seems to be a major issue. One user on X shared their experience, stating, “In case anyone is curious, I returned my Apple Vision Pro today. Too heavy/uncomfortable (no matter how many combinations of head straps or facial interfaces that I tried).”
Other users have also reported eye strain and motion sickness while wearing the headset. One user tweeted, “This week I bought an Apple Vision Pro, but sadly have to return it. It gave me a bad headache and motion sickness.” Another user compared the discomfort to wearing glasses or contacts for the first time, saying, “It’s hard on your eyes… if you ever wore glasses for the first time or contacts for the first time, you know what I am talking about. That’s the same feeling with the Vision Pro.”
Even Parker Ortolani, a product manager at The Verge, returned his device, citing discomfort and eye strain as the reasons. He expressed his disappointment on Twitter, saying, “What a bummer of a day. Can’t believe it, but I’ve returned the Vision Pro. Just too uncomfortable to wear and it’s a strain on my eyes. It’s clearly the future. It works like magic. But the physical tradeoffs are just not worth it for me right now. I’ll be back for the next one, assuming they fix these comfort issues.”
In a surprising turn of events, Ortolani also blamed the headset for a burst blood vessel in his eye. He wrote on Threads, “I have developed a large bloody blotch on my right eye. Thanks Vision Pro. There is quite literally no other reason I can think of for having developed this. Just doesn’t happen to my eyes. Not until now.”
The Verge pointed out that the increase in reports of returned headsets on social media is not a coincidence. Apple allows customers to return any product within 14 days of purchase, and it seems that many Vision Pro buyers are reaching that point. Apple’s support page states that the Vision Pro is “designed for a comfortable viewing experience,” but acknowledges that some users may experience symptoms of visual discomfort. The tech giant advises users to take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes and to stop using the device if they experience visual discomfort.
As of now, Apple has not provided any official comment on the customer returns and health issues associated with the Vision Pro headsets. It remains to be seen how the company will address these concerns and whether they will make any changes to improve the comfort and user experience of their flagship product.
The Trillion Dollar Rise of Apple
Apple’s journey began in 1976 when founders Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne started selling computer kits to hobbyists. Their first product, the Apple I, paved the way for the mass-market release of the Apple II in 1977. Steve Jobs became chairman in 1981, but his tenure at Apple was not without its challenges. He left the company in 1984 after the discontinuation of the Macintosh.
In 1997, Apple announced its acquisition of NeXT software, bringing Jobs back to the company as interim CEO. He officially took on the role in 2000 and led Apple through a series of groundbreaking innovations. The introduction of iTunes, OS X, and the first-generation iPod in 2001 revolutionized the music industry. In 2007, Apple unveiled the iPhone, followed by the first iPad in 2010.
Despite facing setbacks such as Jobs’ resignation in 2011 and declining revenues in 2019, Apple continued to push boundaries. The company introduced the Apple Watch in 2014 and launched Apple Music to compete with streaming services like Spotify. In 2017, the iPhone X showcased a new edge-to-edge screen design and FaceID technology.
Apple’s commitment to sustainability became evident in 2021 when