Hands-On with the Apple Vision Pro: A Demo Experience of Apple’s New VR/AR Headset
Apple has recently launched its highly anticipated product, the Apple Vision Pro. This new VR/AR headset has generated a level of hype similar to when Apple first introduced the original iPhone. While Apple is not the first company to release a VR/AR headset, the brand name and mainstream appeal make the Apple Vision Pro a significant player in the market.
The Apple Vision Pro was announced on June 5, 2023, during Apple’s WWDC 2023 keynote. Preorders began on January 19, 2024, and the headset officially launched on February 2, 2024, in the United States. However, with a starting price of $3,500, the Apple Vision Pro may be a tough sell for many as a first-generation product.
To get a firsthand experience of the Apple Vision Pro, I decided to book two demos at a nearby Apple Store. Living in Southern California, I had several options available to me, and I was pleasantly surprised to find many open time slots. It’s worth noting that availability may vary depending on your location, but it’s worth checking for walk-up demos as well.
During the setup process, I had to provide my prescription glasses so that the Apple Store could scan them using a lensometer machine. This allowed them to prepare the Zeiss optical lens inserts for the demo. Unfortunately, prism lenses are not compatible with the Zeiss inserts. Once the setup was complete, I was shown how to put on the Apple Vision Pro, adjust the fit of the Solo Knit Band, and locate the Digital Crown and capture button.
The demo experience itself was quite impressive. I was given a guided tour of the various features and capabilities of the Apple Vision Pro. One notable feature was spatial photos and videos, which provided a unique sense of depth and immersion. Photos taken with the iPhone 15 Pro Max appeared more lifelike, but those captured with the Apple Vision Pro had an added layer of dimensionality. This immersive aspect allows users to relive precious moments with loved ones.
The headset also showcased the usefulness of panoramic photos. While viewing panoramas on a small iPhone screen may not be appealing, the Apple Vision Pro immerses users in the scene, creating a more captivating experience. Additionally, the ability to move app windows around and resize them was demonstrated, offering a multitasking experience similar to having multiple monitors.
One disappointment was the absence of the virtual keyboard during the demo. Many people, myself included, are curious about how typing would work on the Apple Vision Pro. However, the demo did showcase the Environments feature, which offers immersive wallpapers. The transparency and lighting tone can be adjusted to create a personalized experience.
The highlight of the demo was undoubtedly the immersive videos. The Apple-produced Immersive video featured 180-degree 3D 8K clips that made me feel like I was actually present in those settings. From a woman singing with a pianist to nature scenes and sports, the level of realism was astounding. I also had the opportunity to watch a movie clip, and the theater-sized screen in front of me made it feel like a true cinematic experience.
One particularly memorable moment was experiencing a dinosaur clip. As a butterfly fluttered around, I reached out my hand, and to my surprise, it landed on my finger. The scene continued with a lizard crawling on rocky terrain before a raptor appeared. The level of detail and interaction created an incredibly immersive encounter.
While the technology behind the Apple Vision Pro is impressive, it is unlikely to replace my iPhone anytime soon. The high price tag, starting at $3,500, coupled with the need for prescription inserts, makes it a significant investment. Additionally, the headset’s weight and bulkiness make it uncomfortable for extended use. Wearing it in public is not practical, as it looks cumbersome and attracts attention.
However, there is one scenario where the Apple Vision Pro could potentially replace my iPhone: during air travel. The headset provides a spacious working environment and enhances the movie-watching experience. Despite the potential benefits, I believe it will take several more generations of the Apple Vision Pro to address the size, weight, and affordability concerns.
In conclusion, the Apple Vision Pro offers an exciting glimpse into the future of VR/AR technology. The demo experience showcased its capabilities, from spatial computing to immersive videos. While it may not replace the iPhone for everyday use, the Apple Vision Pro has the potential to revolutionize certain scenarios, such as air travel. As the technology evolves and becomes more accessible, it will be fascinating to see how Apple continues to innovate in this space.