Apple has unveiled its first mixed reality headset to the world, the Apple Vision Pro. The company refers to it as a new era of "spatial computing." Features, price, functions, release date... we'll tell you everything about the new Apple Vision Pro.
Apple's glasses focus heavily on augmented reality, integrating digital content into the real world. According to their claims, the Apple Vision Pro "constantly blends the digital with your physical space."
One of the first things that catches attention about Apple Vision Pro is the fact that it has no controllers. It is a device that is controlled by voice, eyes (thanks to the eye tracking we'll discuss later), and hands. This makes a lot of sense for office use of the glasses.
Some of the functionalities of Apple Vision Pro
Immersive Entertainment
Apple describes this feature as having "your own personal cinema." Wherever you are, you can have an adjustable virtual screen to enjoy different content.
Apple
Additionally, Apple Vision Pro can function as a computer or iPad and will have an extensive app store.
3D Photos and Videos
Apple Vision Pro can record videos and take spatial photos thanks to its 12 cameras and 6 microphones. This allows capturing memories and reliving them later in three dimensions.
Virtual Avatars
With the help of a camera, Apple Vision Pro can create a virtual avatar for making calls or other applications. The avatar can detect the user's facial and eye movements to replicate them and provide greater realism.
3D Meetings with Apple Vision Pro
Facetime meetings will also have their own augmented reality version, where avatars can be used. The user can have a meeting, viewing the call participants in separate windows in front of them.
Apple
'EyeSight' to Display the User's Eyes
When the user puts on the glasses, an external display can show their eyes to the outside world. This facilitates communication between users of Apple Vision Pro.
When the user is fully immersed in virtual reality, the system displays the lenses as black. When in mixed reality, and therefore seeing the real environment, a representation of the eyes appears. This way, people in the surroundings know that the user can interact with them.
Fuente: Apple
These are some of the functionalities that the new Apple Vision Pro brings. Now, let's talk about the glasses' features and specifications.
Features and specifications of Apple Vision Pro
Design
The front of the Apple Vision Pro is made of glass, with an aluminium body connecting it to the 'Light Seal.' This is the part that fits the user's face, blocking out external light. The strap is made of elastic fabric, and the glasses can be adjusted by rotating a small wheel.
Apple
Dual-Chip Processor
The Apple Vision Pro features two processors to allow for complex 3D experiences. The Apple M2 (the most powerful chip currently used in VR glasses) provides advanced graphics, runs the VisionOS system, and visual algorithms.
On the other hand, the new Apple R1 chip is designed to process information from cameras, sensors, and microphones. It can transmit captured images in 12 milliseconds.
More than 4K Displays per Eye
The micro-OLED displays of the Apple Vision Pro have 23 million pixels. This provides a resolution superior to 4K for each eye, surpassing that of other headsets.
Precise Eye Tracking to Eliminate the Need for Controllers
The tracking system of the Apple Vision Pro consists of LEDs and infrared cameras that project invisible light patterns onto the eyes. This provides precise information about eye movement, eliminating the need for a controller. The user can select elements simply by looking at them and making a gesture with their hand.
Hand tracking combines with eye tracking to anticipate the user's movements. This allows for more accurate detection of their intentions.
Spatial Audio System of the Apple Vision Pro
Two audio pods, located next to the ears, provide personalized audio and allow the user to hear what's happening around them. The spatial audio system analyses the environment using sensors to adapt to it.
External Battery with 2 Hours of Battery Life
The battery of Apple Vision Pro is external, not integrated into the body of the headset to reduce its weight. It has a battery life of 2 hours. However, the glasses can be connected to power for all-day use.
Security System of the Apple Vision Pro
The Apple Vision Pro features a security system known as Optic ID. It analyzes and recognizes the unique iris information of the user.
Apple Vision Pro: Price and Release Date
Apple Vision Pro will be available for sale in early 2024, at a price of $3,499. The initial launch will take place in the United States, followed by availability in other countries.
These mixed reality glasses from Apple are the company's new venture and will compete with headsets like the Pico 4 or Meta Quest 2. Do you want to know more about the Pico 4 headset? You can find all the informaton in the following link.