The wait is finally over for tech enthusiasts longing to experience Apple’s much-hyped entry into spatial computing. The company has announced its ultra high-end augmented/virtual reality headset, Apple Vision Pro, will be up for pre-orders starting January 19. It will then hit stores in the US on February 2 carrying a hefty $3499 price tag.
Unveiled last month after years of speculation, Apple is marketing Vision Pro as a breakthrough product that seamlessly blends artificial reality and virtual reality using innovative technologies. Each eye gets treated to a sharp 4K display with smooth refresh rates aided by a hybrid chip system combining the new R1 sensor processor and M2 computing chip.
This powerful setup enables precise tracking of eyes, head, and hand movements for next-gen navigation without external controllers. Gamers can also look forward to life-like visuals and sound thanks to the headset’s array of cameras, sensors, and spatial audio system.
The standard Vision Pro package includes the headset, controller bands, facial interface, cushions, charging accessories, and 256GB onboard storage. Additional premium accessories and prescription lenses will be sold separately.
The era of spatial computing has arrived! Apple Vision Pro is available in the US on February 2. pic.twitter.com/5BK1jyEnZN
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) January 8, 2024
Famed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo considers the $3499 Vision Pro among Apple’s “most important products” that could ship up to 0.5 million units in 2024. This underscores the company’s ambitions in the emerging spatial computing space that blends digitally enhanced overlays into the real world.
Industry experts believe the prohibitive pricing may limit mainstream adoption initially. But Apple hopes to spark developer interest in creating engaging applications leveraging the headset’s versatile features. It mirrors the company’s iconic shift from desktops to iPhones as the core revenue driver.
The January 19 pre-order date also coincides with internal training reportedly being given to Apple store employees on the setup, usage, and sale pitches for Vision Pro. This signals Apple’s plan to promote the device at retail outlets through interactive demos highlighting its standout productivity and entertainment credentials to premium customers.
