Apple Vision Pro: A New Era for Mixed Reality
Apple's highly anticipated mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, is set to hit shelves in February 2024. With its innovative features and exclusive offerings, the device is expected to mark a new era for the evolution of mixed reality.
Introduction
Apple fans are in for a delight next month as they will get a chance to experience one of its most ambitious ventures in recent times. The upcoming month is shaping to be an eventful one for enthusiasts of Apple products as the highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro is finally hitting shelves. The Apple Vision Pro was announced back in June 2023 with an 'Early 2024' release window, and now Apple has confirmed the exact release date of the device.
apple vision pro app store
Mixed reality headsets have been around for a while with the Meta Quest 3 building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors and redefining XR experiences. Amidst that, Apple's venture in the mixed reality sector, which has been rumored for a long time now, finally materialized. As is the case with the reveal of most Apple products, the hype was sky-high for the Vision Pro, and it fittingly marked a new era for the evolution of mixed reality. Fans have been eagerly waiting for the launch of the device ever since WWDC 2023, but it seems like their wait is finally coming to an end.
Release Details and Pricing
Apple has announced in a blog post that the Vision Pro will be available across all Apple retail and online stores in the US starting Friday, February 2. For users who are looking to get their hands on the device at launch, pre-orders will be kicking off on Friday, January 19, at 5 AM PST. The base variant of the headset will be available for a price of $3,499 and will come with 256GB of storage. Apple has not shared any details about the availability of the device outside of the US.
Inside the package, Apple is providing two different bands, Solo Knit, and Dual Loop, to cater to the different fit preferences of the users. Along with that, users will also get a Light Seal, two Light Seal Cushions, an Apple Vision Pro Cover for protecting the device, a Polishing Cloth, a Battery, a USB-C Charge Cable, and a USB-C Power Adapter. Additionally, for those who require vision correction, Apple is partnering with ZEISS to offer optical inserts. ZEISS' Readers inserts can be bought for $99, while the Prescription inserts are slightly more expensive, selling at a $149 price tag.
Demos and User Experience
Apple is also providing demos, on a first-come, first-served basis and users will have to sign up at their local Apple Store for that. Initial impressions have made it quite clear that gamers aren't Apple's priority when it comes to the Vision Pro. Considering how nascent the technology is, Apple's decision to offer Vision Pro demos could be a crucial factor in the initial sales. That being said, it remains to be seen how robust the demos are and whether Apple is able to make an impact on users despite the hefty price tag.
