Apple Vision Pro review one year later: time to exit the preview

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It's been a wild year for Apple Vision Pro, if slow, and it's time for Apple to step up and prove it's the future and drive customers, developers, and creators to the platform.

Futuristic white and silver virtual reality headset with a glossy visor, cushioned interior, and adjustable straps against a dark background.
Apple Vision Pro review: one year later



Apple Vision Pro continues to be one of Apple's most frustrating yet amazing products it has ever released. It is simultaneously a preview of the future and a stark reminder of Apple's struggle to juggle multiple platforms in the modern era.

As it stands today, Apple Vision Pro is enough for me to get most of my work done. It sits in a similar space to where iPad Pro was a few years ago -- almost there.

The introduction of Apple Intelligence and it not being on Apple Vision Pro has been a bit of a problem. When editing text, I either need to use the Mac Virtual Display or take off the headset to edit on iPad.

The lack of native apps hasn't proven to be a big problem, as many iPad apps are available. If you're a user like me, you'll be happy with the challenge of replicating workflows on the visionOS platform.

So, as I look back on the first year of Apple Vision Pro, I want to look forward too, and discuss what Apple needs to make this a possible future in computing. The iPad Pro is still my primary computer, but there are aspects of Apple Vision Pro that keep pulling me back, and I hope more are on the way.



If you'd like to see how I've discussed Apple Vision Pro from pre-launch to today, here's a handy list.

Apple Vision Pro review -- one year



The iPhone is Apple's bread and butter, so it makes sense to see much of the company's attention on it and not on other products. If iPad users thought Apple's development cycle have been long, Apple Vision Pro is on a whole new level.

A digital stylus, tablet with intricate design, and sleek virtual reality headset on a dark surface.
Apple Vision Pro review: finding a place among the platforms



When visionOS 2 was revealed in June 2024, it felt like Apple was committed to giving the platform regular updates. However, after that initial run of new features and APIs, Apple has neglected to add anything else to Apple Vision Pro.

Developers don't have much incentive to make native apps. Media makers aren't paying attention to the platform unless Apple is footing the bill.

All of these things are symptoms of a new product searching for a purpose and market. It doesn't help that Apple Intelligence had to become such a huge priority in 2024 and take all of Apple's attention.

That said, every little step forward so far has been in the right direction. The slow global launch means more international developers supporting the platform and more potential customers to address.

Every new immersive video, game, or native app is another reason for people to spend the $3,500. However, the time for early adopters is over. Apple needs to make Apple Vision Pro a product for everyone, not just the nerds with expendable income.

Apple Vision Pro review -- design



My initial review of Apple Vision Pro pontificated if third-party accessory makers would introduce new and interesting ways to use the product. The short answer is yes, but not quite in the way I was expecting.

VR headset components including a head strap, cushion, charging unit, and protective cover arranged on a dark surface.
Apple Vision Pro review: third-party accessories are few and far between



Instead of offering a range of stylish bands and alternate options, accessory makers chose to focus on different fits. There are now several alternative options to Apple's Dual Loop or Solo Knit headbands, but I always return to the Solo Knit band.

Those that tried Apple Vision Pro early commented heavily on its weight and fit. These are the least impactful parts of the product for me.

The ski-goggle-like headset can be worn for hours at a time without issue, as long as you've found the right fit. I've never gotten a headache or sore eyes from using Apple Vision Pro.

I had no idea what to expect in terms of durability and longevity when I first picked up the Apple Vision Pro in February 2024. It seemed scary to even hold or wear such an expensive device, let alone place it in a case or bag.

Virtual reality headset and padded white case on a black tabletop against a white brick wall backdrop.
Apple Vision Pro review: you don't need Apple's marshmallow case for protection



As the novelty wore off and I inevitably got less careful, I still had no major incident. The closest scare I encountered was pulling the device off of my desk and it hitting the floor -- unscathed.

One year in, there aren't any scratches, rips, tears, or other damage. It's basically brand new.

Even as much as I've used Apple Vision Pro, I've yet to see any deterioration with the face cushion, light shield, or knit band. These accessories are pricey, so it's good to know they've got some longevity.

I canceled my AppleCare after a few months of use. The design has held up well, though you still want to be careful with storage and transport.

Headset securely placed inside an open, cushioned carrying case with a zipper, resting on a wooden surface.
Apple Vision Pro review: third-party options like the Waterfield Shield Case are excellent



Apple's Travel Case is hilariously large, so I took to using the Shield Case from Waterfield for more lengthy trips. If I'm just leaving the house for a bit with Apple Vision Pro in tow, the Backpack from Waterfield has been excellent.

I expect as Apple Vision Pro continues to sell that we'll see more interesting accessories. I purchased a stand for Apple Vision Pro to sit on when not in use, for example, and it's nice. Though it would be better to see more prominent Apple accessory makers tackle the concept.

Apple Vision Pro review -- slow and steady software



Apple Vision Pro is a unique Apple platform in that the user doesn't see the product while it is being used. They certainly feel it, so design is an important part, but the software is almost everything.

Close-up of sleek, dark visor of futuristic virtual reality headset, reflecting light, with soft gray padding underneath.
Apple Vision Pro review: a set of ski goggles competitors are chasing



There is a famous Steve Jobs quote about design: "Design is not just what it looks and feels like. Design is how it works."

That is more true for Apple Vision Pro than any other Apple product on the market. The minute you're strapped into the headset, you're greeted with UI paradigms you've never seen before, yet, they just work.

The first iteration of visionOS had some obvious problems, like how Control Center was accessed. A lot of my complaints about Apple Vision Pro were addressed with visionOS 2.0. In fact, I'd be hard-pressed to find parts of the system I outright don't like.

There are two small annoyances in how the windowing UI works. First, choosing between a UI element in the bottom corner of an app versus the window size adjustment tool can test anyone's patience. Second, windows don't like to line up and sometimes go transparent too aggressively.

These minor complaints will likely be addressed in visionOS 3. That said, things are moving a little too slowly.

Virtual screens displaying various web pages float above a rocky lunar surface under a dark sky.
Apple Vision Pro review: window management still needs work



Apple's other platforms can afford to roll out updates across a year after revealing the expected changes at WWDC. Apple Vision Pro needs much more, much faster.

I understand development takes time and there are other priorities, however, there is no excuse as to why Apple Vision Pro can't access basic Apple Intelligence features in 2025. It also calls back to my previous requests for more evangelism from Apple to developers and other creators.

Apple's own lack of support for native applications is becoming a serious problem. If visionOS 3.0 doesn't come with way more, if not all, native Apple apps, developers are not going to take the platform seriously.

As I've said multiple times before -- Apple needs to be paying developers and creators to bring apps and content to Apple Vision Pro. Apple could inspire others to utilize the platform with plenty of examples of what can be made.

Three curved virtual screens display colorful abstract art, a photo of a cat, and a webpage over a foggy outdoor background.
Apple Vision Pro review: Virtual Display gets an ultra wide mode



Everything surrounding the software and media portions of Apple Vision Pro needs to be accelerated. We did get a few interesting new features like the ultra-wide Virtual Display view, but updates have been limited otherwise.

Apple doesn't care much for anniversaries, so don't expect anything to move on this front just yet. WWDC is in June, and visionOS 3.0 will be Apple's chance to reassure owners and potential buyers that they care about the platform.

Apple Vision Pro review -- lacking Apple Intelligence



I wanted to carve out this section specifically because it feels like a significant miss. Apple Vision Pro arrived early enough in the year that Apple's AI initiatives were still very early rumors.

A virtual reality headset rests on a surface with colorful, intertwined neon lights glowing in the background.
Apple Vision Pro review: no sign of Apple Intelligence anywhere



When Apple revealed Apple Intelligence in June 2024, it seemed like an oversight not to mention it during the Apple Vision Pro portion of the keynote. Apple even clarified that Apple Intelligence could run on the M2 chip used in the headset, but building AI for it wasn't a top priority at launch.

We're on iOS 18.3 and visionOS 2.3 as of this publication, and there still isn't any sign of Apple Intelligence on Apple Vision Pro. Granted, it is still technically beta software, but my workflows would benefit from its inclusion.

One Apple Intelligence feature has had a real impact on my workflows, and that's the Writing Tools Proofread function. It catches the mistakes I need it to without all the cruft of using something like Grammarly.

I can't use Writing Tools when working from Apple Vision Pro without involving my Mac mini. I assume Apple will introduce its AI features to the platform later in 2025.

Apple Vision Pro review -- glacial media rollout



The slow rollout of immersive video and lack of interest from Apple's other services' content are also deterrents. By now, Apple should have regular releases on some kind of knowable schedule for new immersive video content, not to mention some kind of 3D or spatial video adaptations of Apple TV+ media.

A futuristic interface showcasing Apple Immersive Video, 3D movies, and various icons on a lunar landscape background.
Apple Vision Pro review: still too slow releasing new content



I'm willing to give Apple some grace here. Apple Vision Pro didn't make its public debut until February 2024, so directing Apple TV+, Apple Music, or other portions of its services to make content isn't an overnight endeavor. That said, Apple should be recording live shows, sports events, and more using immersive cameras every chance they get.

The fact that the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show didn't have some kind of immersive video component is maddening. There is no point to having all of these products if they're not bothering with synergy.

I'm not really trying to watch Ted Lasso in 3D, but films like Greyhound would be amazing with some level of 3D or spatial conversion within key moments. Immersive video still hasn't crossed into full-length TV show territory, but I hope we see something close in 2025.

In the meantime, I hope we see more incredible short films like Submerged. Every time Apple can deliver something like that, it'll sell more Apple Vision Pros.

Virtual display showcasing 3D movie selections with astronaut imagery, set against a snowy mountain background.
Apple Vision Pro review: there is plenty of legacy 3D content for Apple Vision Pro



The music-related content has been excellent too. The Concert For One series put out its first episode with RAYE, and it was simply excellent.

Apple should be pumping these out almost weekly and advertise them in Apple Music. I understand that editing these kinds of videos together is a lot, but that shouldn't stop Apple.

I also rather enjoyed The Weeknd's Open Hearts music video. It had some surreal elements not present in other immersive video content that show how amazing fiction might be for Apple Vision Pro.

Apple really needs to step up the game here. There isn't much downside to making as much content as is feasible since it means more for users to interact with after their initial purchase.

Using Apple Vision Pro one year later



Apple Vision Pro has become a part of my workflow, my office, and my travel gear. It would be my preferred working tool if it had all the features offered by my iPad Pro, but it's not quite there yet.

A neat wooden desk setup with dual monitors displaying colorful geometric patterns, a keyboard, headset, framed photo, smartphone, and various tech gadgets arranged neatly.
Apple Vision Pro review: another Apple product in my workflow



The hardware isn't where it needs to be to become my everything computer. I look forward to the day I can put an Apple Vision headset on and wear it all day for work and personal use, but we're years away from that.

For now, Apple Vision Pro is best used when I expect to buckle down on a single project that'll take many hours to complete -- like this review. I can write the text, create images, and conduct research all without needing to address another computer, other than the Mac mini for Apple Intelligence Proofread of course.

If I'm working somewhere else in the house, I'm likely doing it from the iPad Pro in the Magic Keyboard. It's the same setup for when I'm working at a coffee shop.

I'm not sure I could bring myself to using Apple Vision Pro in public, except maybe on a flight. There's something about the headset that feels too ostentatious and I don't want undue attention while I work.

Man wearing virtual reality headset stands on rooftop overlooking urban street with trees and buildings.
Apple Vision Pro review: staging this photo was the longest I wore the device in a public space



I also don't want to make my family feel awkward by wearing the headset for work in the living room. There's something to working out in the real world that is still very important, and Apple Vision Pro can't recreate that, EyeSight or no.

When I am using Apple Vision Pro, it is connected to a mechanical keyboard and a Magic Trackpad. The Virtual Display for Mac, iPad apps, and native apps all look crisp and clear.

Every time I have to conduct a review of a monitor or some other accessory that exists outside of Apple Vision Pro, I'm reminded of what it replaces. There is a future where someone buying the Apple Vision Pro will never need to buy another monitor.

I've never had any issue with the interface paradigms like pinching. Everything feels super natural in a way that is still somewhat surprising to this day.

It doesn't matter how short or long a time I use Apple Vision Pro, I always try to scroll by looking and pinching when I'm not wearing it. The gesture is so natural it feels like everything should work that way.

White and black virtual reality headset and two circular controllers on a dark surface, viewed from above.
Apple Vision Pro review: PSVR 2 game controller support could come later



That said, Apple desperately needs to adopt third-party VR controller support. While Meta may never bring Beat Saber to the platform, other games would benefit from the haptics and physicality offered by controllers.

Gestures are great, but they are empty in games. Playing Job Simulator and Synth Riders works fine, but without any haptics you feel foolish and detached from what you're doing versus what's happening in the game.

Controller support could also aid in basic navigation in certain apps. More options are always better, especially when it comes to accessibility.

Something I've been experimenting with recently is using the Mac mini to run console emulation not available on Apple Vision Pro while presenting it full screen. The result has been great so far, and I like how many options I have for window size and shape for viewing in Apple Vision Pro.

Laptop, over-ear headphones, virtual reality headset, and microphone placed on a dark surface.
Apple Vision Pro review: I still record podcasts with Apple Vision Pro on



Whether I'm gaming using the Virtual Mac display or streaming from my PlayStation 5 locally, I've not run into any major lag issues. My network is highly optimized with mesh Wi-Fi 7 routers and hard-wired nodes, so there's not much opportunity for things to go wrong.

I'm still quite bullish on Apple Vision Pro. As it exists today, it's enough and I don't regret my purchase. It's been excellent for work and personal use.

However, I'm a tech enthusiast willing to shell out the cash for novel technology that has minimal support. If Apple wants to win anyone else over, something has got to give.

Step up or don't bother



I've mentioned it throughout this text and my previous reviews, but I'll say it again here. Apple needs to be an evangelist for its platform because it is the only one that can make a difference.

A close-up view of a sleek black and silver virtual reality headset with visible cameras and mesh padding.
Apple Vision Pro review: it shouldn't take Android headsets to increase interest in spatial apps



There should have never been any question about YouTube, Netflix, or other major apps coming to Apple Vision Pro. Apple should have been working with developers and companies, big and small, to ensure everything was coming to Apple Vision Pro at or near launch.

The public is about to become a lot more interested in spatial apps and content, but not because of anything Apple did directly. Sure, Samsung's new headset is a near clone of Apple's and the Android XR platform borrows a lot from visionOS, but it will have AI and YouTube at launch.

It doesn't help that Apple seems too busy to care about getting its most basic apps ready for the new platform. I understand not having Contacts ready, but there is no excuse for Calendar.

It's past time for Apple to get serious, because while users like me are committed to using Apple Vision Pro, it isn't enough. Sure, the market isn't going to respond well to a $3,500 headset, but when the lite version launches for $2,000 in early 2026, customers will need a lot of convincing even then.

Despite my criticism, I'm quite happy with how the Apple Vision Pro rollout has gone so far. Apple could have done better, but with everything else going on, at least they got the thing out there.

Sleek virtual reality headset on a stand with a reflective front visor and a ribbed gray strap against a dark background.
Apple Vision Pro review: Apple needed to release Vision Pro when it did, so apps and accessories could be ready



Some suggest Apple could have waited a year and released it in its current form with today's media and app selection. However, I don't think it would have made sense to wait because Apple needed input from outside of Apple Park.

Year one did its job as an early adopter timeframe. Year two needs to establish a solid foundation for the future of the platform, which includes possible financial success for developers and a large library of immersive video and 3D content.

As much as I love Apple Vision Pro, I worry about what will happen if Apple doesn't get more serious about the platform. While I doubt Apple will give up on Apple Vision Pro, as it has sold well enough, I'm worried it'll stagnate until Apple can release a lower-priced, lightweight model.

Apple Vision Pro review -- looking to the future



Apple Vision Pro is a preview of the next decade or more of Apple computers. The first iteration may have its flaws and a slow start, but it is quite the first attempt with excellent hardware and interface that would take other companies two or three iterations to achieve.

White virtual reality headset and slim control device resting on an outdoor table, with a cityscape in the blurred background.
Apple Vision Pro review: a preview of Apple's next decade of computing



Rumors are all over the place when it comes to Apple Vision Pro. I expect it'll go something like what initial timeframes arrived at -- 2026 for a lower-priced model and 2027 for the Apple Vision Pro 2.

People like to discuss Apple Vision Pro and Apple's future glasses project in the same breath, but they're not quite the same product. These two units, one a VR headset and one AR glasses, will be sold as separate products that both happen to run visionOS.

A set of Apple glasses feels inevitable, if far away given how big and bulky Apple Vision Pro is today. However, Apple could release a set of glasses at any point, but don't expect any pair released in the next couple of years to be as sophisticated as Apple Vision Pro.

Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses are just a voice assistant, speaker, and camera without a HUD. While I believe AirPods are a better device for such things, I am interested in the idea of a wearable camera that is attached to my Apple ecosystem.

Whatever Apple's plans are in the space, what we have today is quite compelling on its own. However, if Apple ever wants Apple Vision Pro to be for more than tech nerds with expendable income, it needs to step up and show it cares about the longevity of the platform.

VR headset leaning on a small, square, silver computer atop a black base, with a textured white brick wall in the background.
Apple Vision Pro review: even without a new headset, new Macs bring faster chips to the platform



If someone were to ask me about buying Apple Vision Pro, if I recommended it, I wouldn't hesitate to say yes. It is an excellent headset where certain kinds of work can be done, with several great options for games and entertainment, and everything about it feels futuristic.

If you're watching a movie alone, there is nothing else out there that can beat the experience of doing it on Apple Vision Pro with AirPods Pro 2. While $3,500 is expensive, it isn't far from the price of a good entertainment system or desk setup.

If you've got the money and are intrigued by Apple Vision Pro, go get one. There's nothing else like it on the market and it'll only get better from here.

Apple Vision Pro review -- Pros


  • Still the best possible hardware for the price

  • More apps and games arriving, if slowly

  • There's nothing else on the market that comes close to offering immersive video and 3D movies like this

  • Good enough to get work done, but...

Apple Vision Pro review -- Cons


  • ... lacks native apps from Apple and third-parties

  • Slow rollout of features, apps, and native content becoming a problem

  • Lack of Apple Intelligence in the first year is a big miss

  • Apple needs to prove it cares about the platform

Rating: 3.5 out of 5



Our rating fell from a 4.0 to a 3.5 in the previous six-month review, and the score holds here. Once Apple starts releasing more content regularly, makes more first-party apps native, and helps push for wider developer adoption, the score can go up.

Hardware-wise, Apple Vision Pro is a 5 out of 5. I doubt Apple could build a better headset today at this price.

How to buy Apple Vision Pro



Ordering Apple Vision Pro isn't too dissimilar from buying any other Apple product, except it's only available from Apple online and physical Apple Stores. Customers will need to have a few things ready to order, like their prescription, to ensure the ordering process goes smoothly.

Apple Vision Pro starts at $3,499 with 256GB of storage. Upgrade the storage to 512GB or 1TB for $200 more at each tier. Optical inserts are $99 for readers and $149 for prescriptions.



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Comments

  • Reply 1 of 32
    You’re lucky that you don’t have any issues with the weight. I’ve tried at least ten different iterations of the face cushions and none have been able to make it where I can wear the AVP for longer than a couple hours. It’s not so simple to do this either. I’ve had to buy them, try them on for a week or so and return them. Then repeat the process. I’ve even bought third party head gear hoping it would help. I’ve found a few but they just transfer the weight from my eyes to my forehead. I only use it for watching media because of this, as media usually is about 2 to 3 hours, the max before my face hurts too much. 
    williamlondongrandact73Alex1Nwatto_cobra
     2Likes 1Dislike 1Informative
  • Reply 2 of 32
    I have never seen anyone wearing one.
    williamlondonmuthuk_vanalingamtiredskillsgrandact73watto_cobra
     2Likes 3Dislikes 0Informatives
  • Reply 3 of 32
    Pemapema Posts: 210member
    I have never seen anyone wearing one.

    For the Vision Pro to go mainstream Apple will need; 
    1. Content
    2. Comfortable Size 
    3. Price
    4. Use case
    Not necessarily in that order. Everyone understands phones, computers, earbuds, tablets, TVs, cameras, watches.

    Like mikethemartian said, he has never seen anyone wear it. I would addd even Not even in an Apple store. 

    Personally I don't see this as a viable consumer product. 

    I certainly can see it as a very useful product in hospitals, labs, industry etc. etc. 

    There is no question that Apple created the ultimate XR that if anyone would want one that's the one they would get. But even at a price of a base phone there s just no consumer market for this. Not even Meta despite years of plugging Quest at a couple hundred dollars could turn this into a viable mainstream product. 

    Not everything that tech creates has a market. The tech graveyard is littered with products that never made it. Just look at Google. Two hundred plus flops and counting. 

    The next aimless pursuit is smart glasses running in conjunction with the phone. Forget it.

    What we need is a Steve Jobs to dream up something new that adds value and functionality and not just a lateral device that sits on top of one's face and isolates us from the world around us. 

    The buzz now is AI. Let's see how this pans out. 

     


    edited January 29
    watto_cobraparasubvert
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  • Reply 4 of 32
    Maybe Apple Vision Pro’s lack of response, is the market saying ‘we only respond when it’s something we need,’
    surf monkeywilliamlondonnubusdewmegrandact73Alex1Nwatto_cobra
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  • Reply 5 of 32
    Wesley Hilliardwesley hilliard Posts: 374member, administrator, moderator, editor
    Pema said:
    I have never seen anyone wearing one.

    Not everything that tech creates has a market. The tech graveyard is littered with products that never made it. Just look at Google. Two hundred plus flops and counting. 

    The next aimless pursuit is smart glasses running in conjunction with the phone. Forget it.

    I disagree. Apple Vision Pro is a really well done minimum viable product. While it is priced out of the range of most consumers, it is already an incredible tool for getting work done in a new way. A smaller, lighter, less expensive version will be killer.

    Walking around with Apple Vision Pro on and seeing UI floating in your real space is a wild experience. AR glasses that work properly will better realize this.

    I don't think phones are going anywhere, but I do think Apple Vision Pro, glasses, and these paradigms are a future people will embrace when they are more mass produced at a better price. The use case is there. The tech exists. This isn't some failed tech demo. Apple's competitors are already rushing to replicate it.

    I'm excited for what's next.
    williamlondonjas99tiredskillsAlex1Nwatto_cobra
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  • Reply 6 of 32
    blastdoorblastdoor Posts: 3,671member
    From all that I’ve read about AVP it is possibly the most “pro” of all Apple’s “pro” products, or tied with the Mac Pro in pro-iness.

    It seems unrealistic to expect this to become a consumer or prosumer product any time soon. Apple should lean into the pro market until the economics make it more feasible for consumers. 
    Alex1Nwatto_cobra
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  • Reply 7 of 32
    It’s a flop.
    surf monkeyWesley Hilliardwilliamlondonjas99nubusgrandact73neoncatwatto_cobraparasubvert
     4Likes 5Dislikes 0Informatives
  • Reply 8 of 32
    Tech bro garbage that no one wants. 
    Wesley Hilliardwilliamlondonblastdoorjas99dewmepulseimagesgrandact73neoncatwatto_cobraparasubvert
     3Likes 7Dislikes 0Informatives
  • Reply 9 of 32
    Wesley Hilliardwesley hilliard Posts: 374member, administrator, moderator, editor
    It’s a flop.
    Tech bro garbage that no one wants. 
    I don't feel that way. I doubt Apple thinks it is a flop. If Apple sold the entire inventory during pre orders (supply chain info shows they did) and that was north of 180,000 units and we're not counting upgrades or accessories, then that equates to about 10% of Meta's total profit from Meta Quest 2 in opening weekend. Apple sold an estimated 400,000 units in 2024. That's about $1.4 billion in the first year compared to $7.2 billion in the entire lifetime of Meta Quest 2.

    Tough to call that a flop.

    Meta just said it has lost $60 billion since 2020 on its headset division.

    I think Apple and Apple Vision Pro are doing fine by all metrics. It may not be a blockbuster, but comparing everything to iPhone is a waste of time.
    williamlondonblastdoorjas99pulseimagesgrandact73Alex1Nwatto_cobraparasubvert
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  • Reply 10 of 32
    Marvinmarvin Posts: 15,524moderator
    You’re lucky that you don’t have any issues with the weight. I’ve tried at least ten different iterations of the face cushions and none have been able to make it where I can wear the AVP for longer than a couple hours. It’s not so simple to do this either. I’ve had to buy them, try them on for a week or so and return them. Then repeat the process. I’ve even bought third party head gear hoping it would help. I’ve found a few but they just transfer the weight from my eyes to my forehead. I only use it for watching media because of this, as media usually is about 2 to 3 hours, the max before my face hurts too much. 
    There are a lot of components inside:

    The weight is actually similar to most headsets:

    https://www.statista.com/statistics/1337114/vr-headset-comparison-by-weight/

    AVP weighs 600-650g for the headset and 350g for the battery pack.

    The Big Screen Beyond VR headset (display-only) is lighter and weighs 170-185g:

    https://www.uploadvr.com/bigscreen-beyond-weight-specs/

    An iPhone 15 weighs 171g, including battery.

    An iPhone 15 compute unit (minus display) + Big Screen Beyond headset would weigh 356g, almost the same as the AVP battery pack. It may need more battery power but they can still build a much lighter unit.

    Hopefully the 2nd revision will see a big reduction in size and weight. It would be good if they could sit it closer to the eyes to increase field of view.





    In September this year, they will have the 3nm A19 Pro chip, which could go in AVP 2 or a smaller model. This will run much cooler than M2 and drain less battery.

    If Apple had made AVP1 like an iPhone strapped to a headset, even with 2K displays around $1499-1999, they'd have sold a few million units. It would still have been the best VR headset on the market and people would mostly use it for media consumption. Text would have looked more blurry but people used SD monitors for decades and this problem will get resolved in time as display manufacturing improves.

    A more mainstream model would let them see what the demand is like and would drive more software and content having a larger userbase.
    Wesley Hilliardjas99muthuk_vanalingamAlex1Nwatto_cobra
     4Likes 0Dislikes 1Informative
  • Reply 11 of 32
    Wesley Hilliardwesley hilliard Posts: 374member, administrator, moderator, editor
    Marvin said:
    You’re lucky that you don’t have any issues with the weight. I’ve tried at least ten different iterations of the face cushions and none have been able to make it where I can wear the AVP for longer than a couple hours. It’s not so simple to do this either. I’ve had to buy them, try them on for a week or so and return them. Then repeat the process. I’ve even bought third party head gear hoping it would help. I’ve found a few but they just transfer the weight from my eyes to my forehead. I only use it for watching media because of this, as media usually is about 2 to 3 hours, the max before my face hurts too much. 
    There are a lot of components inside:

    The weight is actually similar to most headsets:

    https://www.statista.com/statistics/1337114/vr-headset-comparison-by-weight/

    AVP weighs 600-650g for the headset and 350g for the battery pack.

    The Big Screen Beyond VR headset (display-only) is lighter and weighs 170-185g:

    https://www.uploadvr.com/bigscreen-beyond-weight-specs/

    An iPhone 15 weighs 171g, including battery.

    An iPhone 15 compute unit (minus display) + Big Screen Beyond headset would weigh 356g, almost the same as the AVP battery pack. It may need more battery power but they can still build a much lighter unit.

    Hopefully the 2nd revision will see a big reduction in size and weight. It would be good if they could sit it closer to the eyes to increase field of view.





    In September this year, they will have the 3nm A19 Pro chip, which could go in AVP 2 or a smaller model. This will run much cooler than M2 and drain less battery.

    If Apple had made AVP1 like an iPhone strapped to a headset, even with 2K displays around $1499-1999, they'd have sold a few million units. It would still have been the best VR headset on the market and people would mostly use it for media consumption. Text would have looked more blurry but people used SD monitors for decades and this problem will get resolved in time as display manufacturing improves.

    A more mainstream model would let them see what the demand is like and would drive more software and content having a larger userbase.
    I have a feeling Spatial Computing is about to go much more mainstream thanks to Android XR and the Samsung AVP clone. Developers will no longer have the excuse that the market is too small to address when they need an app for Apple and Android platforms in this space.

    I expect Apple's lower priced model will go on sale in early 2026. In the meantime, Apple needs to make the existing headset more desirable.
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  • Reply 12 of 32
    mattinozmattinoz Posts: 2,557member
    I think the big part of the problem is the same the Mac had early days as well
    journalist who write about tech as still journalists and work with words.
    this is a computing style for working with space. Working space gets very bad coverage historically. Pictures are a thousand word a space is a billion.

    If Apple want to push that side then highlight how people are using it in those fields. Real stories not just grabs of actor architects at stand up desks.
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  • Reply 13 of 32
    I thought they retired the Vision Pro project? Wasn’t that news like last year or something?
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  • Reply 14 of 32
    Wesley Hilliardwesley hilliard Posts: 374member, administrator, moderator, editor
    I thought they retired the Vision Pro project? Wasn’t that news like last year or something?
    Nope. Never retired, not even close.
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  • Reply 15 of 32
    nubusnubus Posts: 686member
    I thought they retired the Vision Pro project? Wasn’t that news like last year or something?
    Nope. Never retired, not even close.
    Well... Apple stopped production as the current model was about to go Lisa. Production of some components ended May last year due to sales being far below expectations.

    This is the first major product from Apple that hasn't been upgraded within 1 year. Newton, iPod, iPad, iPhone (major upgrade), iMac (3x the first year). AVP was presented in June 2023, the hardware is on M2, and the OS still doesn't do AI. This indicates that AVP was only launched due to the failure of Car. It wasn't ready or planned for being launched. All they had was this prototype and no viable roadmap.

    I would say AVP is on hold. New countries are not being added and the Midas touch clearly didn't work. Apple will have to fully rethink what the technology is good for. There could be a speed bump version but something major will have to change for this to absorb the development costs when moving beyond 2026.

    And it is all fine. Iterations are nice but moonshots are required for taking us and Apple beyond the current state of computing.
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  • Reply 16 of 32
    canukstormcanukstorm Posts: 2,770member
    nubus said:
    I thought they retired the Vision Pro project? Wasn’t that news like last year or something?
    Nope. Never retired, not even close.
    Well... Apple stopped production as the current model was about to go Lisa. Production of some components ended May last year due to sales being far below expectations.

    This is the first major product from Apple that hasn't been upgraded within 1 year. Newton, iPod, iPad, iPhone (major upgrade), iMac (3x the first year). AVP was presented in June 2023, the hardware is on M2, and the OS still doesn't do AI. This indicates that AVP was only launched due to the failure of Car. It wasn't ready or planned for being launched. All they had was this prototype and no viable roadmap.

    I would say AVP is on hold. New countries are not being added and the Midas touch clearly didn't work. Apple will have to fully rethink what the technology is good for. There could be a speed bump version but something major will have to change for this to absorb the development costs when moving beyond 2026.

    And it is all fine. Iterations are nice but moonshots are required for taking us and Apple beyond the current state of computing.
    "This indicates that AVP was only launched due to the failure of Car" => Or it was launched as a way to cement Tim Cook's legacy at Apple before he retires.
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  • Reply 17 of 32
    I have the Vision Pro dev kit, basically the same hardware but with an extra USBC port and a bunch of accessories, but otherwise close to the product you’ll get from Apple today.

    The device was both released too late and too soon. 

    Too late because Meta pushed an entire ecosystem for years - at a huge loss, albeit with a different positioning.
    if Apple didn’t have Meta as competitor I bet their current positioning would have been different. They just couldn’t enter the market so late with a “Samsung let’s copy” approach. So it became a “spatial computer” instead that no one wants.

    Too soon because they weren’t ready by a long shot. Most of the apps are iPad apps projected on a flat plane in a 3D space. The only way they can sell that odd reality is because of their “spatial computer” positioning: these are windows on your spatial desktop! Sure, whatever. The end result is that most of the UX isn’t truly spatial. It’s just flat stuff in a 3D space. The spatial nature isn’t leveraged. 
    The “you can have 10 monitors” argument is also nonsensical. Nobody needs it. And you can buy pretty decent monitors for $500-$700 if that’s what you need. 
     
    The truth is, you’re not really productive with a VR device. Especially one that feels way too heavy on your face and puts two monitors right in front of you. 
    AVP it’s a terrible device for gaming. Meta was smart enough to go for a dual approach where you can switch between hands and controllers based on your use-case. 

    So at least with the Meta Quest, you can consume spatial videos and many fun games for $550 or so. On AVP, you can’t really do much.
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  • Reply 18 of 32
    canukstormcanukstorm Posts: 2,770member
    I have the Vision Pro dev kit, basically the same hardware but with an extra USBC port and a bunch of accessories, but otherwise close to the product you’ll get from Apple today.

    The device was both released too late and too soon. 

    Too late because Meta pushed an entire ecosystem for years - at a huge loss, albeit with a different positioning.
    if Apple didn’t have Meta as competitor I bet their current positioning would have been different. They just couldn’t enter the market so late with a “Samsung let’s copy” approach. So it became a “spatial computer” instead that no one wants.

    Too soon because they weren’t ready by a long shot. Most of the apps are iPad apps projected on a flat plane in a 3D space. The only way they can sell that odd reality is because of their “spatial computer” positioning: these are windows on your spatial desktop! Sure, whatever. The end result is that most of the UX isn’t truly spatial. It’s just flat stuff in a 3D space. The spatial nature isn’t leveraged. 
    The “you can have 10 monitors” argument is also nonsensical. Nobody needs it. And you can buy pretty decent monitors for $500-$700 if that’s what you need. 
     
    The truth is, you’re not really productive with a VR device. Especially one that feels way too heavy on your face and puts two monitors right in front of you. 
    AVP it’s a terrible device for gaming. Meta was smart enough to go for a dual approach where you can switch between hands and controllers based on your use-case. 

    So at least with the Meta Quest, you can consume spatial videos and many fun games for $550 or so. On AVP, you can’t really do much.
    The holy grail for Apple is AR Glasses
    thtCheeseFreezewatto_cobra
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  • Reply 19 of 32
    Wesley Hilliardwesley hilliard Posts: 374member, administrator, moderator, editor
    nubus said:
    I thought they retired the Vision Pro project? Wasn’t that news like last year or something?
    Nope. Never retired, not even close.

    And it is all fine. Iterations are nice but moonshots are required for taking us and Apple beyond the current state of computing.
    It's fine if you believe this but by all counts it seems to be wrong. I'm not sure where you're getting this information. Sounds like a lot of assumptions and conjecture using data you don't have.

    Nothing we've reported on suggests any of what you said to be the case. Sorry.


    So at least with the Meta Quest, you can consume spatial videos and many fun games for $550 or so. On AVP, you can’t really do much.
    Idk, you might have one, but either you just don't like it and don't use it or you don't have it because this isn't my experience at all. And "just buy a $700 monitor" isn't an alternative to spatial computing.

    I can work from Apple Vision Pro. Meta Quest is a toy. It's a fun toy, but I couldn't do the same things with it.

    A spatial computer no one wants? Except the entire market is shifting to clone Apple Vision Pro.

    I appreciate the comments guys, but they're way off base and don't seem to exist in a reality beyond three inches in front of your own noses.
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  • Reply 20 of 32
    price more devs, price more apps, and PRICE MORE USERS, this is it, it's a HUGE product,
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