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Apple Vision Pro: A Game-Changing Headset Revolutionizing AR/VR

Source: Apple.com

 

by Stefan Roth

Now, with the new Apple Vision Pro, everyone is writing reviews about a device that hardly anyone has had the chance to test firsthand. It may seem odd and amusing at the same time, but considering the anticipation and high expectations surrounding "this Apple device," it's not entirely surprising. So, should you dismiss this as just another article?

As someone who became captivated by augmented reality in 2014, I've spent nearly a decade exploring various devices and tracking the evolution of this technology. Perhaps it is this experience and my penchant for thinking outside the box that has allowed me to identify some key points about the new Apple Vision Pro—a potential game changer that many others have yet to recognize.

My initial impression was somewhat underwhelming. Showing 2D apps within a 3D space? Come on, we could already do that with the HoloLens-1. I have long advocated for 3D applications that truly immerse users in a three-dimensional world, rather than merely placing 2D apps within a 3D environment. However, what if this is just the beginning? What if this approach serves as an introduction, providing users with a familiar experience reminiscent of their iPhones or iPads? Imagine giant screens with crisp resolutions offering an extraordinary visual experience—a virtual cinema with dimmed ambient light. While this may not be a groundbreaking technological advancement, it combines existing concepts to deliver a compelling user experience. Perhaps there is value in showcasing 2D content in 3D after all. I am confident that this is just the first step, with other high-quality 3D experiences being developed alongside it.

When discussing the Apple Vision Pro, the focal point is undoubtedly user experience. This is where Apple excels like no other. Instead of simply building a device with various impressive features and hoping for mass endorsement, Apple took a different approach. They asked themselves, "What might make someone not like it?" They considered the "average" user—someone who might not be tech-savvy, a gamer, or someone who has never worn a VR device before. Apple catered to those who might hesitate to wear a bulky pair of goggles that fully immerses them in an artificial world, effectively blocking out the real world.

This is where Apple's mastery shines: EyeSight. By projecting your face onto a screen, the illusion of transparent glasses is created. This is not merely a gimmick; it is essential. It fosters acceptance from those around you while wearing the device and provides the Vision Pro user with the knowledge that everyone in the physical world can see them. It establishes a connection between the user and their surroundings, whether they are immersed in VR or not. In my opinion, this is one of the key features that helps prevent complete detachment from reality. It's a built-in feature that engenders trust—a steady bridge. Let's take the new Meta Quest 3 as a counterexample. It also offers see-through capabilities in color, but it is an optional feature that app developers may or may not utilize. Meta doesn't prioritize it, unlike Apple with the Vision Pro.

Speaking from personal experience, if I were caught by my family wearing a VR headset, I might be perceived as engaging in "strange activities" they could not anticipate. Consequently, I would hastily remove the headset, feeling as awkward as a boy caught urinating in the backyard. However, if my family knew that I could see them and they could see me while using the device, the acceptance barrier would be lower—for both me and hopefully for them too.

Another noteworthy feature that often goes unnoticed is the inclusion of a fully-fledged M2 processor. Yes, people have written about it, applauding its impressive performance alongside the new R1 processor. This signifies a new era. Before the Apple Vision Pro, it was widely accepted that portable devices, like smartphones, necessitated the use of restrained processors. Consequently, performance in VR applications was severely limited, and high-graphic games, such as Beat Saber, were the best one could hope for. This belief was unanimous. However, with the M2 processor, which resides right on your head, you no longer require any additional devices. I vividly recall my initial reluctance when I purchased my first VR headset and was compelled to buy a bulky tower PC, solely to handle the graphical demands. It is essential to note that this was just two years ago. Now, with the Vision Pro's built-in performance capabilities, it entirely replaces the need for a separate laptop. It can likely handle any task you previously performed on your laptop. The headset is no longer an extension of the computer; the headset is the computer.

Usability and customer experience are paramount. This is a point I cannot stress enough. There is a significant difference between moving a window around on the HoloLens-2 to find a spot where it won't obstruct your view, and having a window with an elegant design that casts shadows as you move it seamlessly within your physical environment. It may appear to be a mere gimmick, but it is one of many features contributing to an exceptional user experience—based on my assumptions, as I have yet to try the Vision Pro for myself.

Of course, numerous questions remain unanswered. Is it truly worth the price of around 4000€? I am one of the few who foolishly purchased a HoloLens-2 for personal use, paying the same amount. I don't consider it a mistake. Another question concerns programming. How will developers unleash the Vision Pro's 3D power? Apple showcased brief examples during the keynote, demonstrating at least some sort of 3D immersion. They have announced an SDK, which sounds promising. However, will it be robust enough for Apple enthusiasts to create compelling apps? Will there be integration with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal? Will Apple take a completely different approach? Will programming for the Vision Pro be a pain, or can developers leverage their existing knowledge of Unity?

Lastly, there is the gut feeling. As someone who trusts their instincts when making decisions, I can confidently say that the Apple Vision Pro is a game changer. Perhaps it is a subtle revolution, unfolding slowly beneath the surface. Nevertheless, it has the potential to revolutionize every aspect of this field. Oops, Apple did it again (maybe?).

Note: This article has been edited and formatted to enhance clarity and readability.