Apple, AAPL, releases VR/AR headset
Apple introduced Vision Pro, an expensive pair of goggles, during the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) held at its headquarters in Cupertino, Calif. The company claims that Vision Pro will unlock a whole new universe of virtual and augmented reality applications, promising magical experiences for its users. According to CEO Tim Cook, Vision Pro represents a significant advancement in augmented reality technology, comparable to the introduction of smartphones by the iPhone. Cook believes that Vision Pro will revolutionize spatial computing and provide exciting opportunities for developers.
Scheduled for release in early 2024 in the United States, with availability in other countries later in the year, Vision Pro comes with a starting price tag of $3,499. The high cost is reflective of the cutting-edge features and extensive development efforts that have gone into creating the headset. Apple aims to offer an unparalleled user experience with Vision Pro, incorporating a revolutionary input system and numerous groundbreaking innovations. The company's vision is to deliver incredible experiences to its users while providing developers with new avenues for creativity and exploration.
During the Vision Pro launch, Disney CEO Bob Iger made a special appearance, praising the platform as revolutionary. Iger emphasized that Vision Pro will enable Disney to craft deeply immersive stories that were previously unimaginable. To demonstrate the potential of Vision Pro, Disney showcased a sizzle reel featuring various concepts and experiences designed specifically for the device. Iger revealed that Disney+ will be available on Vision Pro from day one, further enhancing the entertainment possibilities for users.
Vision Pro boasts an intuitive navigation system that utilizes eye movements, hand gestures, and voice commands, eliminating the need for external controllers. Apple has implemented a feature called Eye Sight, which indicates whether the wearer is in augmented reality or fully immersive VR mode. While Vision Pro offers advanced functionalities, it prioritizes user privacy by restricting app developers from accessing precise eye location or personal information. Additionally, the headset includes Apple's first-ever 3D camera, enabling users to capture spatial videos and photos. It also serves as a personalized movie theater, offering support for Apple TV+, Apple Arcade games, and various other Apple services.
With its ultra-high resolution, surpassing even that of a 4K TV, Vision Pro provides users with stunning visual clarity. Apple has also developed a newly designed spatial audio system, enhancing the auditory experience and immersing users in rich, realistic soundscapes. The combination of exceptional visuals and immersive audio makes Vision Pro a truly state-of-the-art device for virtual and augmented reality enthusiasts.