Apple’s long-awaited AR/VR headset, the Vision Pro, has finally hit the market after years of speculation. With a price tag starting at $3,499, the headset has already sold over 200,000 units within the first 10 days of preorders. ZDNET got their hands on two units for testing, and after a month and a half of rigorous testing, the verdict is in – is the Vision Pro worth the hefty price?
The Vision Pro features a unique design, with an external battery pack and a tethered cable connecting to the headset, aimed at reducing discomfort during extended use. The headset resembles ski goggles and includes an external screen for EyeSight, allowing your eyes to be visible to others. With two OLED displays, Apple’s M2 chip, 12 cameras, five sensors, six microphones, and Siri, the Vision Pro is packed with cutting-edge technology.
Running on the new VisionOS, the headset offers a blend of AR and VR experiences, with popular Apple apps like Books, FaceTime, and Maps available in mixed reality. Users can control the headset with eye and hand tracking, voice commands, and a crown similar to the Apple Watch for switching between AR and VR modes.
One of the standout features of the Vision Pro is its immersive video capabilities, allowing users to feel present in the video’s environment. The device is compatible with third-party streaming services like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video, and users can watch their own videos shot on their iPhone in spatial video mode.
For work purposes, the Vision Pro doubles as a 4K external monitor for Macs, with FaceTime allowing for life-sized videoconferencing with realistic digital personas. The price range for the Vision Pro starts at $3,499 for the base model, with additional storage options available for $3,699 and $3,899. Eyeglass wearers can opt for Zeiss Optical Inserts at an additional cost.
With its advanced technology and immersive experiences, the Apple Vision Pro is setting a new standard in the AR/VR headset market. Despite its high price point, the device offers a unique and cutting-edge experience for users looking to explore the world of mixed reality.