Apple's foray into virtual reality technology is marked by the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro, the company's first VR device. Ahead of its February 2nd release, Apple has unveiled a TV commercial titled "Hello Apple Vision Pro" showcasing the capabilities and features of the device.
The ad provides a glimpse into the user experience, highlighting how people interact with the Vision Pro through the visionOS interface, using eye and finger gestures.
The commercial reveals both the internal and external design aspects of the Apple Vision Pro. Externally, the headset is equipped with faux eyes, light-seal cushions, and a strap, while internally, it features two micro-OLED panels that present as a single wide screen to the wearer.
Users interact with the device primarily through eye movements and finger gestures, such as pinching to open apps or to make selections within the interface. The ad also emphasizes the use of the Digital Crown on the device for adjusting the immersive experience.
The Apple Vision Pro is shown to facilitate a range of applications, from attending video calls to watching movies. Noteworthy is the realistic holographic representation of individuals during video calls and the enhanced immersive experience when viewing panoramas.
These features indicate Apple's commitment to integrating digital content seamlessly with physical space.
The Apple Vision Pro price is set at $3,499 in the US, with availability starting from February 2nd. The release in other regions is expected shortly thereafter.
Despite its innovative features, the Apple VR device has seen a lukewarm pre-order response, with numbers falling short of Apple's initial projections. Notably, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that pre-orders are between 160-180,000 units, against an expected 400,000 sales in the first year.
A significant challenge for Apple is the limited number of apps available at launch, with visionOS expected to debut with around 150 apps. The absence of a standout application at this stage is notable.
Apple faces the task of attracting third-party developers to create apps for the Apple headset, which requires considerable effort and investment due to the device's advanced technology and larger canvas.
The success of the Apple Vision Pro will depend on how effectively Apple can overcome these challenges and expand its app ecosystem.
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