In a highly anticipated announcement at WWDC 2023, Apple revealed its first attempt into the realm of augmented and virtual reality with the introduction of Apple Vision Pro. Departing from the conventional terminologies of AR/VR, Apple dubs its creation a “spatial computer.” We go into the details of this device, exploring its specifications, features, and who its targeted towards!
Futuristic Hardware and Stylings
While Apple’s presentation focused more on the overall concept and experience rather than detailed hardware specifications, many leaks from earlier this year turned out to be accurate. The Vision Pro boasts two micro-OLED displays, each offering a resolution of over 4K per eye. With a total of 23 million pixels, approximately 2.5 times more than the Pico 4, the headset looks capable of delivering exceptional image sharpness. These visuals are enhanced by specialized catadioptric lenses. Although specific details about the field of view and refresh rate remain undisclosed, the Vision Pro is expected to offer an immersive experience.
“Reverse-Passthrough” display
One notable feature of the Vision Pro is a “reverse-passthrough” display on the front of the headset. This display replicates the user’s eyes and resembles wearing tinted diving goggles. Its purpose is to make social interactions at home or work feel more natural, fostering a sense of presence and connection. We won’t deny, initial impressions does make it seem like you are wearing ski goggles and does kind of give a “black mirror” vibe. However using this feature could be better in person and only would be applicable if the device is being uses in a more communal setting such as a living room at home.
Innovative Chipsets and Operating System
Apple’s M2 processor handles the main computing load of the standalone headset, while the custom-designed R1 chip ensures “near-instantaneous” real-time viewing of the real world. Powering the device is the new VisionOS operating system, specifically tailored for spatial applications. It provides direct support for popular platforms like Unity and ARKit, further enhancing the development potential for creators. Which is why we believe this announcement at WWDC was to drum up interest from developers to create programs compatible with the OS.
Sensors Overflowing
The Vision Pro is packed full with sensors as it incorporates two color passthrough cameras, allowing users to maintain awareness of the real-world environment. Eight additional cameras, including infrared sensors and downward-facing cameras, enable precise hand tracking, eliminating the need for physical controllers. A LiDAR sensor and two depth sensors provide real-time 3D mapping, enhancing environmental interactions.
Eye tracking is enabled by four high-speed cameras and multiple infrared LEDs, enabling a technique known as foveated rendering. This process optimizes performance by rendering only the area of focus in full detail, resulting in more efficient resource allocation and improved visual quality. The headset is activated by an iris scan, and the interpupillary distance can be mechanically adjusted for a customized fit.
This would mean that navigating in the VisionOS will be natural as the device is able to sense depth and track your hand movements. You would be able to manipulate and navigate elements with just your eyes and open hands. Mixed reality applications will also only prove to be better since the device has multiple inputs and can display elements accurately since there is both LiDar sensor and 8 cameras to help give it perspective.
Comfort and Modularity
The design of Apple’s Vision Pro resembles slim ski goggles, with a headband serving as a mount. A wide, stretchy strap offers comfortable support for the back of the head, allowing the headset to be worn while lying down—an uncommon feature in the current market. The face mask, designed based on thousands of facial studies, adapts to individual face shapes and is available in various sizes and shapes. They have also opted for the battery pack to be separate from the head unit which assume is to help with prolonged use with the device.
As regular glasses may not fit under the Vision Pro, Apple offers a solution in the form of magnetically attachable prescription lenses from Zeiss, ensuring clear vision for users with visual impairments. No indication what the costs would be to have prescription lenses specifically for your device though we assume it won’t be cheap.
Who is the Apple Vision Pro for?
Contrary to expectations, Apple positions the Vision Pro as a daily companion for use at home and on the go, appealing to a broader consumer base beyond professionals. They aim to have the Apple Vision Pro to be a device that is an integral part of your productivity and entertainment.
In regards to the latter, while no specific VR games have been announced (though we suspect that Sony Playstation may be compatible based on their trailer) but Apple has partnered with Disney to offer immersive entertainment experiences. Indicating that there is a focus on high-quality content to complement the device. Unsure if the VisionOS would support their Apple Arcade platform but it is assumed that it will be easy to run on the device.
Availability and Pricing
Unlike the more mainstream Pico 4, the Vision Pro is a high-end product, reflected in its price tag of USD 3,499 (Approx MYR 16,000+!). This positioning aligns with the advanced technology integrated into the device. Although an exact release date is yet to be disclosed, the Vision Pro is expected to hit the market in early 2024. Would you get one for yourself? Do you think its worth the price of multiple OLED TVs? Let us know in the comments or our socials!
Note: This Article will be updated as more details are revealed. Follow us at at The Adventures of Vesper and make sure to follow our socials – Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up to date!
