Apple has shared that its long-awaited Vision Pro headset will be available for purchase in the United States starting on February 2. Customers in the US can pre-order the mixed-reality device for $3,499 (Rs.290480.68) from mid-January, but there’s no specific date for its release in the UK yet.
This headset marks Apple’s first major product launch since the introduction of the Apple Watch in 2015. Despite being officially unveiled in June 2023 after years of speculation, there have been some challenges. Reportedly, Apple has significantly reduced its production expectations, cutting down from an initial estimate of one million units to 400,000 in 2024, as reported by the Financial Times.
Along with the release date, Apple provided details such as the device having 256GB of storage. Additionally, it clarified that the eye-tracking technology in the headset can work by monitoring just one dominant eye, catering to users with limited use of both eyes.
Interestingly, Apple is aiming to distinguish its headset from others in the market. In a message to developers, the company advised them to brand their apps for the device as “spatial computing” and avoid terms like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), extended reality (XR), or mixed reality (MR).
To build excitement, Apple has released an online trailer featuring characters from movies wearing goggles and helmets, reminiscent of the buzz around the iPhone launch in 2007. If successful, this product could become a significant source of income for Apple. However, the high price tag is likely to limit its accessibility to wealthier individuals, especially at a time when many people worldwide are facing financial challenges.
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Additional things other than Vision Pro to purchase
Apple not only shared the release details for its $3,499 headset but also disclosed the prices for additional Zeiss prescription lenses that users can opt for. Readers, which are non-prescription lenses, can be added for an extra $99 (Rs.8218.80). If users need prescription lenses, they can get them for an additional $149 (Rs.12369.71).
The base model of the Vision Pro comes with 256GB of storage and includes the following accessories:
- Solo Knit Band and Dual Loop Band
- A light seal and two light seal cushions
- Apple Vision Pro cover
- Polishing cloth
- Battery
- USB-C charging cable
- USB-C power adapter
These accessories are bundled with the headset for a complete experience.