Apple Launches First Augmented Reality Headset

Facts

• On Monday, Apple unveiled its first augmented reality (AR) headset in its first major hardware launch since the introduction of the iPhone about a decade ago.¹
• According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, the "spatial computing" device can be used to play video games and watch movies on large "virtual" screens as well as help teams collaborate on multiple video calls.²
• The Vision Pro, which includes Apple's first 3D camera, reportedly uses eye and hand movements and voice input for navigation instead of external controllers to provide ultra-high resolution with about 23M pixels across two displays.³
• Since the headset — reportedly equipped with 12 cameras, six microphones, and multiple sensors — doesn't need physical controllers, the users will have to plug it into a power outlet or a portable battery attached to the headset at all times.⁴
• The headset's starting price of $3,499 is more than three times the cost of the most expensive headset in Meta's line of mixed and virtual reality (VR) devices.⁵
• Apple shares hit an all-time high of $182.95 on news of the announcement, but shares ended the day lower Monday at $179.58.⁶

Sources: ¹BBC News, ²FT, ³Variety, ⁴Euronews, ⁵Reuters, and ⁶Investor's Business Daily.

Narratives

• Narrative A, as provided by Washington Post. While the new headset may seamlessly blend the real and the virtual world, as Apple claims, Vision Pro's hefty cost, clunky design, separate wired battery pack, and narrow range of applications are likely to deter even wealthy buyers. The fact that the much-awaited announcement did not excite Wall Street shows Vision Pro may not immediately be a big hit.
• Narrative B, as provided by The Indian Express. Skepticism aside, Vision Pro is revolutionary as it can replace your TV, laptop, high-end camera, and smartphone. It may be tempting to judge Apple's latest offering, but the headset could be a highly advanced wearable system adorned with valuable features that can change how we work and play — using only our voice, eyes, and hands.
• Cynical narrative, as provided by PCMag. The iPhone manufacturer is entering an emerging field where rivals have, up until now, yet to excite consumers. Moreover, there needs to be more evidence of a big market for wearable tech. Vision Pro may be the most advanced consumer-available VR headset ever, but because it will most likely fail to appeal to the general public, chances are it will soon vanish into oblivion.

Predictions