The Apple Vision Pro is a remarkable piece of technology, priced at a hefty $4,000, but it's not something most people should rush to buy. Having tested it alongside other XR headsets like the Meta Quest 3, and having spoken to XR developers about the industry, I'd advise against purchasing it unless you're developing an app for it or need to assess its potential for your organization.
Let's not beat around the bush here. Until Apple releases a more affordable headset, priced between $1,500 and $2,000 and aimed at a broader audience, buying the Vision Pro for casual use like entertainment, video calls, or virtual monitors isn't justified. It'll take time for developers to create a wider range of apps and experiences, and for major content providers like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify to come on board.
But if you've already taken the plunge and ordered a Vision Pro only to find yourself regretting it, don't fret. Apple offers a two-week return policy, allowing you to test it out and see if it aligns with my advice. This trial period will also give you a taste of the limited nature of the Vision Pro experience initially.
If you haven't purchased the Vision Pro yet but are intrigued by its price tag and capabilities, I highly recommend booking a demo at an Apple Store offering them. The experience is worth it, particularly the spatial photos and videos, which are truly breathtaking. While you can capture similar content on an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max and view it on a Meta Quest 3 using apps like Spatialify, there's something special about experiencing it firsthand on the Vision Pro.
However, investing in a Vision Pro solely for spatial media isn't practical, especially considering the growing capabilities of smartphones and the impending release of competing headsets from Samsung, Google, and others. Instead, consider starting with a Meta Quest 3, priced at $500, and waiting for the Vision Pro ecosystem to mature before revisiting the idea of purchasing one.
For businesses interested in VR, AR, and XR for product development, training, or other functions, established platforms like HTC Vive, Varjo, and Sony/Siemens may be more suitable, given their robust enterprise programs and experience across multiple industries. Ordering a Vision Pro to test alongside these platforms could be beneficial if XR is a key focus for your organization's future.
The launch of the Vision Pro marks a significant milestone in VR and spatial computing, signaling the future of immersive digital experiences. While the device itself is impressive in terms of build quality and aesthetics, and the spatial media experiences are emotionally captivating, most consumers should resist the fear of missing out and refrain from purchasing one immediately.
Instead, take the opportunity to test it out and witness the advancements in immersive technology. Consider investing in a Meta Quest 3 for a more accessible entry point into the world of XR, and keep an eye out for upcoming competitors to the Vision Pro, which are likely to offer similar features at a lower price point. And when Apple releases a more affordable product with a broader ecosystem, perhaps then will be the time to reconsider.
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