Apple has finally unveiled its much-anticipated augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) headset, the Apple Vision Pro Reviews. This spatial computer promises to take mixed reality technology to new heights with its innovative features and sleek design. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the key aspects of the Vision Pro, including its weight, size, color options, display, pricing, and more.
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Introduction
After years of rumors and speculation, the Apple Vision Pro is now a reality. Apple aims to revolutionize the AR/VR space with this high-end headset packed with advanced technologies.
The Vision Pro is the first product to use Apple’s new visionOS operating system. It runs on Apple’s latest silicon – the M2 chip and R1 reality processor. With its dual Micro OLED displays, precise tracking, and lifelike graphics, the Vision Pro delivers an immersive mixed reality experience.
Apple is marketing the Vision Pro as a device that seamlessly blends virtual content with the real world. It could transform gaming, communication, productivity, and more. But how does it actually perform in real-world use? Let’s analyze the key hardware specs and features that make the Vision Pro tick.
What is Weight and Size
The Vision Pro headset weighs between 600 and 650 grams, which is lighter than some competing devices. For comparison, the Meta Quest Pro weighs 722 grams. The relative lightness of the Vision Pro reduces strain during extended mixed reality sessions.
Apple aimed for a balanced, comfortable fit when designing the Vision Pro. The curved visor helps distribute weight across your head and nose. The soft knit band also reduces pressure points.
In terms of size, the Vision Pro visor measures 114 x 196 x 132 mm when folded. Unfolded it is slightly wider but still compact enough for portability. The soft carry case allows for easy transportation and storage.
Overall, Apple has managed to create a moderately lightweight and portable AR/VR headset given the onboard processing power and displays. The size and weight should accommodate most head shapes and allow for comfortable all-day use.
Color Options
Apple is offering the Vision Pro in only one color variant – a sleek matte black finish. The monotone black allows the device to blend seamlessly into mixed reality environments. It also gives off a polished, high-tech aesthetic.
The black finish extends across the visor, headband, and magnetic battery pack. The only splashes of color come from small silver Apple logos on each side of the visor.
Some consumers may have preferred alternate color options, but the black finish aligns with Apple’s characteristic minimalism. It also avoids detracting from virtual content by keeping real-world elements muted.
Display Features
Dual micro-OLED displays are the driving force behind the Vision Pro’s exceptional visuals. Apple packed an incredible 23 million pixels across the two displays. For comparison, the highest resolution Apple monitor available packs “only” 7.7 million pixels.
The displays support HDR and a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth visuals free of motion blur. Each display uses local dimming for dark blacks and bright highlights.
Apple also developed a custom silicon frame buffer to ensure lag-free switching between virtual environments. This technology eliminates delays and artifacts.
The displays combine with accurate head and eye tracking to create true perceptual realism. Objects in your field of view are rendered in full 3D for an incredibly immersive experience.
Apple visionOS
The Vision Pro runs on visionOS, Apple’s custom operating system optimized for mixed reality. visionOS integrates tightly with existing Apple services and features robust UI navigation.
You can access apps from the expansive App Store catalog using voice commands, hand gestures, and an integrated Control Center. Multitasking allows you to open multiple apps simultaneously.
The built-in Spatial Browser offers desktop-class web browsing. You can also mirror iOS apps and stream video in virtualscreens.
visionOS uses iOS-style power management for smart resource allocation. Expect the same reliability and optimization Apple users enjoy on other devices.
How is Performance Hardware
The M2 chip and R1 reality processor supply the power for seamless mixed reality experiences. These custom Apple silicon chips deliver console-grade performance in a slim headset.
The M2 chip handles vision processing, rendering, audio, and more. It leverages a 5nm process for optimal power efficiency.
The R1 harnesses over a decade of Apple’s AR development efforts. It handles positional tracking and overlays virtual elements onto the real world.
Together, these chips enable advanced graphics, physics simulations, and spatial audio. Even complex virtual environments remain perfectly stable.
Apple built the Vision Pro to last for years – the hardware will support at least three OS generations before needing an upgrade. This ensures your investment stays relevant.
What is Battery Life
The Vision Pro relies on an external, magnetically attached battery pack for power. This battery connects via a fast Thunderbolt cable to deliver up to 60 watts of power.
In regular use, Apple estimates the Vision Pro battery will last around 2 hours on a full charge. If you’re streaming video, expect closer to 2.5 hours per charge.
The battery is designed for quick hot swapping – simply detach a depleted battery and attach a fresh one to resume your session. Additional batteries cost $129 for ease of extended use.
While not the longest battery life on the market, Apple optimized it for comfortable full-day usage. The batteries charge quickly via USB-C, so you can get back to full in under an hour.
Sensors and Input Modes
The Vision Pro sports an array of cutting-edge sensors to enable intuitive control:
- High resolution inward and outward facing cameras accurately track hand movements and capture real-world surroundings.
- Lidar scanners map environments in 3D and pinpoint your exact location.
- Accelerometers, gyroscopes, and other motion sensors track head position.
- Spatial audio adjusts sound profiles based on your orientation.
You can interact using hand gestures, voice commands, on-device controls, and supported peripherals. Switch seamlessly between input modes for optimal convenience.
These sensors combine to create a highly responsive, lag-free control experience. The Vision Pro reads even subtle gestures accurately.
Price and Availability
The Apple Vision Pro base model is priced at $3499 in the United States. Pre-orders opened January 19, 2024 with units shipping on February 2.
For now, the Vision Pro is only available in the US. International expansion will follow later in 2024.
While certainly pricey, the Vision Pro delivers cutting-edge hardware and massive value for early adopters. Expect the price to drop over subsequent generations as components mature.
The Vision Pro edition for developers is also available for $1299. It offers full tech specs minus some comfort-focused hardware.
Conclusion
The Apple Vision Pro ushers in a new era for spatial computing. Seamless integration with Apple’s existing ecosystem makes this a highly appealing option for iPhone users.
Well-balanced weight distribution, sleek design, and customizable fit enable comfortable long-term use. Dual cutting-edge displays and Apple’s latest silicon deliver best-in-class visuals and lag-free performance.
While the battery life could be longer, Apple offers smart power management and quick-swap functionality. Easy set up and robust controls via hand tracking, voice, and more open mixed reality to everyone.
At $3499, the Vision Pro commands a premium price. But for early adopters seeking a state-of-the-art AR/VR headset, it delivers major technological advancements in a polished package. Apple has set the bar extremely high – competitors will struggle to match the Vision Pro’s capabilities.
Apple Vision Pro Specs
Spec | Details |
Weight | 600-650 grams |
Size | 114 x 196 x 132 mm (folded) |
Color | Matte Black |
Displays | Dual Micro OLED, 23 million pixels, 120Hz refresh rate |
Processor | Apple M2 chip, Apple R1 reality processor |
Operating System | visionOS |
Battery Life | 2-2.5 hours per charge |
Sensors | Cameras, lidar, motion sensors, eye tracking |
Input Modes | Hand tracking, voice, controls, supported peripherals |
Price | Starts at $3499 |