Apple Unleashes Vision Pro Spatial Computer

Apple has heralded it as the world's first spatial computer, with a release slated for early next year.

Apple has finally unveiled its long-rumoured augmented reality headset at its World Wide Developer Conference. Previous rumours suggested that Apple was preparing to launch a mixed reality headset under the moniker Reality Pro; the actual product, however, has been named VisionPro, a title that has also been the subject of speculation in the past. Retailing at $3,499, the headset not only supports virtual reality, but its primary focus is on augmented reality experiences. Apple has heralded it as the world's first spatial computer, with a release slated for early next year.

The VisionPro is powered by what Apple describes as the world's first three-dimensional user interface, named VisionOS. This revolutionary operating system is controlled solely through the user's eyes, hands, and voice. The headset boasts an ultra-high-resolution display, offering 23 million pixels across two frames, crafted onto a die the size of a postage stamp. It offers a wide colour range and high dynamic range, with catadioptric lenses ensuring exceptional sharpness and clarity. For those requiring vision correction, optical inserts made by Zeiss are available. The device is driven by a combination of an M2 processor and a brand-new processor called the R1, which handles all information from the device's sensors and cameras.

An innovative spatial audio system is integrated into VisionPro. Apple insists that users will perceive the sound as emanating from their surrounding environment, thanks to two individually amplified drivers housed within each audio pod.

A suite of high-speed cameras and ring LEDs projects invisible light patterns onto the user's eyes, providing responsive and intuitive input. This technology establishes the device's eye-tracking system as the most advanced of its kind. In total, the headset is equipped with 12 cameras, five sensors, and six microphones. It also introduces a new form of biometrics called Optical ID, which scans the retina. Another notable feature projects the user's face onto the outer display, allowing others to see where the wearer's attention is directed.

Apple utilises three-dimensionally formed laminated glass, which is polished to create an optical surface acting as a lens for the wide array of cameras and sensors. This glass is melded with a custom aluminum frame that gently curves around the wearer's face, adding a modular system for a tailored fit to accommodate a broad range of individuals. The device is fitted with a light seal made of soft textile, available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and flexible straps ensure the audio remains close to the user's ears. The headband also comes in multiple sizes.

The device is powered by an external battery that magnetically attaches to the headset, providing two hours of battery life for on-the-go usage. However, it can also be plugged in for stationary or long-term use.

Apple has disclosed that as VisionOS shares the same framework as iOS and iPadOS, it supports apps from those platforms. Disney has announced that it will launch Disney Plus on the device from day one, demonstrating the experiences it is developing for the platform.

During the launch, Apple invited Disney chairman and CEO, Bob Iger, who previously served as a board member of the Cupertino-based company, to take the stage. Apple also showcased app experiences developed by Microsoft and Zoom. Additionally, it announced a suite of its own core apps, such as FaceTime and Safari, tailored for the headset.

Apple is marketing VisionPro as an entertainment device that transforms into a personal home theatre, complete with 3D support, and an entertainment hub with Apple Arcade apps. It is also being touted as a powerful computer, blending the DNA of the MacBook with the M2 processor.

The way Apple has pitched the device, depending on the use case, it can morph into a television, into a virtual world, into a personal workspace, or a personal sound system. It packs everything into one while also working with Apple’s Mac and keyboard and trackpad.

In a way, Apple has repeated the pitch it made for the original iPhone. In the case of the original iPhone — it was a phone, widescreen iPod and a breakthrough internet communications device. In the case of the Vision Pro, it is a 3D TV that can be as big as 100 feet, a spatial audio sound system that adapts to your surroundings, and a high-performance computer.