Apple officially unveiled its much-anticipated augmented reality (AR) headset, the Vision Pro, at its WWDC 2023 conference. The Vision Pro is a highly ambitious product, packed with technology including a new operating system called visionOS. Pre-orders are currently open and the headset is set to go on sale on February 2nd, 2023.
Despite the impending launch, there is a limited selection of natively developed apps for the Vision Pro at the moment. However, users can look forward to 3D movies, streaming services like Disney+, and 180-degree recordings with Apple’s Spatial Audio tech.
To help users navigate the new product, we’ve put together an essential guide to everything Apple has announced about the Vision Pro and visionOS.
Design of the Vision Pro
The Vision Pro features a ski goggle-like design with a continuous front panel wrapping around the eyes, concealing a fan for cooling and a light seal to prevent ambient light from leaking in. The back of the headset includes buttons and a digital crown for fine-tuning. The custom 3D lens ensures that the UI always remains in view, while built-in earbuds provide audio support.
Image Credits: Brian Heater
Ziess has partnered with Apple to create magnetic lenses for prescription wearers, available for custom order through the Apple Store. The Vision Pro is equipped with IR cameras, lidar sensors, and a variety of other sensors to track eye movement, hand gestures, and detect objects and people in real time.
Apps and Features
At launch, the Vision Pro will feature apps from major developers such as Adobe, Microsoft, and others. It also supports a range of Apple and third-party apps, including entertainment, productivity, and educational apps. The headset is also compatible with 600+ apps explicitly designed for the Vision Pro, with a brand-new app store launching alongside the device.
TV and Movies
The Vision Pro introduces a new video format, Immersive Video, with content from Apple and third parties. The device can play 3D versions of movies and stream entertainment services like Disney+ in 3D. It also supports immersive audio technology for a theater-like sound experience.
EyeSight, Optic ID, and Spatial Video
The Vision Pro’s EyeSight feature creates a virtual version of the wearer’s face, displayed on the external screen of the headset. Optic ID provides biometric authentication using iris scanning. The device also supports spatial video and spatial audio for an immersive multimedia experience.
Battery and visionOS
The Vision Pro’s battery is external, providing up to two hours of use. It can be used while charging and supports accessories like keyboard and trackpads. The device runs on visionOS, the first operating system designed specifically for spatial computing.
Availability and Purchase
The Vision Pro is available for pre-order and will be officially released on February 2nd, 2023. It is priced at $3,499 for the 256GB model. Customers can visit an Apple Store for a demo and personalized fitting before making a purchase.
Guided Tour
For those eager to learn more, Apple has released a guided tour showcasing the features of the Vision Pro. Additionally, TechCrunch will be providing ongoing coverage of the device and its capabilities.
