I recently had the opportunity to try out Apple’s new Vision Pro, their highly anticipated augmented reality headset. The device, which was released on February 2nd, is packaged in typical Apple fashion, with a fabric mask that protects the goggles and comfortable fabric straps. The fabric mask can be easily removed to reveal the sleek glass-like goggles.
Before trying on the Vision Pro, I had to take a quick quiz to ensure that my eyes were ready to use the device. Currently, the headset does not accommodate eyeglasses, but there are reports that prescription lenses can be purchased separately. After passing the quiz, an Apple expert guided me through the process of scanning my face and eyes using an iPhone. This personalized the device to my facial features and eyes, ensuring a comfortable and optimal experience.
Once the goggles were on, I had to calibrate my eyes by focusing on various dots on the screen and pinching them with my fingers. Unlike other augmented reality headsets, the Vision Pro does not require controllers for hand movements. Instead, it relies solely on eye and finger gestures, which took some practice to coordinate but ultimately provided a unique and immersive computing experience.
The main demonstration of the Vision Pro was truly impressive. The Apple expert guided me through a familiar “home page” setup, reminiscent of my Mac and iPhone. The large screen displayed in front of me, while still allowing me to see the rest of the store behind it. I was able to scroll through the Photo folder by simply moving my fingers left or right, and pinching allowed me to zoom in on specific photos. The 3D photos and videos taken with the Vision Pro were particularly stunning, making me feel like I was actually present at the events they captured.
Other features showcased during the demonstration included panoramic photos, 3D videos, and the ability to watch movies on a screen that could be adjusted to the size of an IMAX theater. The device also offers web browsing and office tasks, making it a versatile tool for various activities.
Although the Vision Pro is slightly on the heavy side, I found it to be comfortable to wear for an extended period. The external battery, which was present during the demonstration, can be attached to the device or placed on a table.
Overall, my experience with Apple’s Vision Pro was impressive. The device offers a unique and immersive augmented reality experience, relying solely on eye and finger gestures for navigation. With its sleek design and versatile features, the Vision Pro is sure to be a hit among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.