Apple Announces Its Vision Pro Spatial Computer Headset to Release Next Year

The Vision Pro is an MR (Mixed Reality) computer that masquerades as a headset and allows users to control the device via eye contact, hand gestures and voice commands. (Image credit: Apple)

Apple recently unveiled its MR (Mixed Reality) headset at this year’s World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC). To be clear, the gear isn’t a headset in the usual sense but rather a wearable computer capable of utilizing the company’s EyeSight and Digital Persona features while remaining engaged in the real world. To that end, users can watch movies, play games and engage in simple computer tasks such as internet browsing.

According to Apple, the Vision Pro packs a pair of twin 4K displays with HDR quality, but those wearing glasses must shell out for some custom prescription Zeiss inserts. The platform is also outfitted with the company’s R1 chip, capable of processing images within 12-milliseconds, 8X faster than the human eye. It also packs 12 cameras, six microphones and five sensors to garner spatial data and interaction, including the ability to control the device using eye contact, hand gestures and voice commands.

Insert YouTube video here- https://youtu.be/TX9qSaGXFyg

As mentioned earlier, the Vision Pro uses Apple’s EyeSight technology to show others that other users are engaged with them or immersed within the headset. There’s also a crown on top of the device that allows users to ‘dial in’ how deep that immersion goes, from augmented reality to virtual reality. Of course, with all the engagement options, there’s no need for controllers or 3^rd party tracking devices, and the device can natively take advantage of Apple’s visionOS for 3D experiences.

On a related note, Disney is an official partner of the Vision Pro and is currently creating exclusive experiences for the device, including Marvel Games, Disney World and others. Famed Japanese video game creator Hideo Kojima is bringing his game portfolio to the Mac OS, beginning with Death Stranding, which could be ported to the Vision Pro; however he didn’t specify when the games will make an appearance on the popular OS. Only time will tell for those willing to shell out $3,499 in early 2024.

If yo think the price is insane, keep this in mind… Microsoft Hololens 2 starts at $3500 too – and other versions go over $5000. Maybe Apple is in the right area.

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