- The process kicks off with an Apple Store employee employing a Face ID-like technique to scan users’ faces, precisely identifying the light seal required for Apple’s futuristic headset.
- Notably, Apple has taken user feedback seriously, introducing a second, more comfortable strap for the Vision Pro to address previous complaints about discomfort during extended use.
- While this comprehensive demonstration provides a taste of the headset’s capabilities, it’s noteworthy that it won’t be mandatory for potential buyers, as Apple is set to sell the Vision Pro online as well.
As Apple gears up for the official release of its highly anticipated Vision Pro headset on February 2nd, details about the in-store demo experience are emerging. According to insights shared in Mark Gurman’s recent Power On newsletter for Bloomberg, trying out the Vision Pro won’t be a run-of-the-mill affair.
Novel experience flow
The process kicks off with an Apple Store employee employing a Face ID-like technique to scan users’ faces, precisely identifying the light seal required for Apple’s futuristic headset. For those requiring vision correction, Apple plans to use a specialized device to scan their lenses, extracting the prescription data. Once this initial phase is completed, users are fitted with a Vision Pro featuring one of the “hundreds” of lenses available in-store. The employee then guides users on the device’s usage, even down to the preferred holding style.
Gurman details that the ensuing demo spans an immersive 25 minutes, encompassing activities such as viewing photos and videos, experimenting with the Vision Pro as a computer or iPad substitute, and exploring third-party applications. While this comprehensive demonstration provides a taste of the headset’s capabilities, it’s noteworthy that it won’t be mandatory for potential buyers, as Apple is set to sell the Vision Pro online as well.
However, for the online purchase, users must still scan their faces with an iPhone or iPad to obtain the correct head strap and have their vision prescription ready for the $149 optical inserts.
Notably, Apple has taken user feedback seriously, introducing a second, more comfortable strap for the Vision Pro to address previous complaints about discomfort during extended use. While this improved strap won’t be part of the in-store demos, it signals Apple’s commitment to refining user experience based on real-world usage.
Also read: Where did the metaverse go? And will Apple’s Vision Pro bring it back?
About the plan for 2024
Beyond the in-store experience, Gurman sheds light on Apple’s cautious approach to the Vision Pro’s market demand. The tech giant reportedly expects an initial surge, advising its stores to allocate “about twice as much inventory space” during the launch weekend compared to subsequent ones. However, recent supply chain rumors suggest that only up to 80,000 units will be available at launch, with half a million projected for the entire year.
This scarcity poses an interesting challenge given the unique nature of AR/VR headsets. Unlike iPhones, these devices are less likely to be used casually in public spaces like coffee shops. The hesitation to approach a stranger wearing a $3,500 head computer adds a layer of complexity to consumer adoption. Still, Apple seems undeterred, with rumored plans for a more affordable version of the headset and future developments in AR glasses.
While Apple charts its course in the augmented reality space, competitors like Meta and Xreal are not idling. Meta’s strategic partnership with Ray-Bans and Xreal’s recent unveiling of the $699 Air 2 Ultra AR glasses highlight the dynamic landscape of AR technology. As the Vision Pro hits the market, Apple faces not only the challenge of meeting immediate demand but also laying the groundwork for a broader ecosystem of augmented reality experiences.
