Apple’s Vision Pro Headset Now Available for Pre-Order, Shipping in February
After years of anticipation, Apple’s highly awaited headset, the Vision Pro, is finally available for pre-order in the United States. The company has announced that the official launch date is set for February 2nd. While this news has created a buzz among tech enthusiasts, it is important to note that the Vision Pro is currently limited to the United States, with shipping estimates quickly slipping into March.
Apple has also provided some additional details about the Vision Pro alongside the start of pre-orders. The headset boasts impressive tech specs, including storage options of up to 1TB. Furthermore, Apple has revealed pricing for AppleCare+ and a range of available accessories. This comprehensive information allows potential buyers to make an informed decision before placing their pre-orders.
Apple Begins Selling Series 9 and Ultra 2 Watches Without Blood Oxygen Feature in U.S. Amid Dispute
In a separate development, Apple has been forced to disable the blood oxygen feature on its Series 9 and Ultra 2 models of the Apple Watch sold in the United States. This move comes as a result of an ongoing patent dispute with Masimo, a company that accuses Apple of stealing trade secrets and poaching employees.
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) had previously imposed an import and sales ban on Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing after ruling in favor of Masimo’s pulse oximetry patents. However, it is worth noting that previously-sold watches and models sold in other countries are not affected by this ban.
Apple is reportedly working on changes to the Blood Oxygen app’s algorithm as a long-term solution to avoid infringing on Masimo’s patented technology. However, it remains unclear when these changes will be implemented.
Apple Releasing iOS 17.3 Next Week With These New Features
Apple has announced that iOS 17.3 will be released next week, bringing a range of new features and additions to iPhone users. Among the highlights of this software update are Stolen Device Protection, collaborative Apple Music playlists, the ability to connect an iPhone to select hotel room TVs via AirPlay, and a Unity Bloom wallpaper for the Lock Screen.
This update demonstrates Apple’s commitment to continuously improving user experience and providing innovative features that enhance the functionality of their devices.
U.S. Developers Can Now Offer Non-App Store Purchasing Option, But Apple Will Still Collect Commissions
In compliance with a U.S. court ruling, Apple has made a significant change to its App Store rules. App Store apps are now allowed to feature a single link to a developer website that offers an alternative payment option for in-app purchases. However, it is important to note that Apple will continue to collect a commission ranging from 12 to 27 percent on content bought through this alternative method.
This decision comes after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear appeals from both Apple and Epic Games in their trial related to App Store rules. Additionally, Apple is seeking legal fees from Epic Games as a result of the trial.
Kuo: Apple Vision Pro to Launch Internationally Before WWDC
Renowned Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared his insights on the international launch of the Vision Pro headset. Kuo believes that the headset will be available in additional countries beyond the United States by WWDC 2024 in June. While Apple has not provided a specific list of countries, reports suggest that Canada, the UK, and other English-speaking nations are likely to be among the first to receive the highly anticipated device.
Apple Vision Pro Virtual Keyboard Blasted As ‘Complete Write-Off’
One of the key features of the Vision Pro headset is its virtual keyboard, which allows users to input text in their spatial computing environment. However, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the virtual keyboard experience in visionOS 1.0 is being criticized as a “complete write-off.” Gurman suggests that most users will prefer to use a Bluetooth keyboard instead of relying on the virtual keyboard.
In conclusion, Apple’s Vision Pro headset is now available for pre-order, marking an exciting milestone for the company and its customers. While the headset offers cutting-edge technology and impressive features, there are still some areas that need improvement, such as the virtual keyboard experience. Nonetheless, Apple continues to innovate and provide new updates and features across its product lineup, ensuring that users have the best possible experience with their devices.
