Apple has recently released its highly anticipated mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro. This new device is marketed as a ‘spatial computer’ and is said to revolutionize the way we interact with computers and apps. But what does this mean for the future of cycling? Could we soon be using mixed-reality headsets while riding outside?
The Vision Pro is Apple’s new augmented reality headset that runs on their visionOS operating system. It utilizes a range of cameras and sensors to track a user’s eyes, hands, and voice. This allows it to overlay apps, windows, and virtual desktops in a 3D interface over a live video stream of the real world. Unlike virtual reality headsets that block out the real world, the Vision Pro provides an augmented reality experience by incorporating computer-generated content into the real world.
With a starting price of $3,499 for a model with 256GB of storage, the Vision Pro is not cheap. At the moment, it is only available in the United States. However, the compatibility of the Vision Pro with popular cycling apps like Zwift has caught the attention of many tech-savvy cyclists. Zwift has confirmed that while they haven’t specifically optimized their app for visionOS, it should still work fine on the Vision Pro. Other iPad-compatible apps like Rouvy, Wahoo SYSTM, and TrainerRoad are also expected to work on the device.
Interestingly, Zwift has previously explored virtual reality in 2017 when they demoed a prototype Zwift VR app at Eurobike. Paired with an Oculus Rift VR headset, the app provided riders with a first-person view for a more immersive experience. However, Zwift stated that the current form factor of VR headsets is not suitable for high-intensity workouts as they tend to get hot and steamed up. They are keeping an eye on developments in the headset space but believe that the hardware needs further optimization before a fully realized Zwift app for visionOS can be created.
Beyond virtual cycling experiences, the Vision Pro has the potential to integrate itself into various aspects of our cycling lives. For example, users could browse websites or listen to podcasts while training indoors. It could also provide artificial intelligence-assisted instructions for bike maintenance or replace traditional bike computers with a heads-up display for outdoor riding.
While the Vision Pro may not have been specifically designed with cyclists in mind, it is possible that a more sports-oriented version or a new augmented reality device tailored for cyclists could be developed in the future. For now, we can only speculate on the possibilities that the Vision Pro and similar devices may bring to the world of cycling.
In conclusion, Apple’s Vision Pro mixed-reality headset has the potential to change the way we interact with computers and apps. Its compatibility with popular cycling apps like Zwift opens up new possibilities for indoor training experiences. While the current hardware may not be optimized for high-intensity workouts, the future of cycling with mixed-reality headsets looks promising. Whether it’s immersive virtual rides or integrated bike maintenance instructions, the Vision Pro could revolutionize the way we approach cycling in both indoor and outdoor settings.