On February 2nd, Apple made its most significant hardware debut in decades with the launch of the Vision Pro spatial computer in the United States market. Given the reported preorder sales and Apple’s track record of successful hardware releases, there are ample reasons for optimism among metaverse enthusiasts.
The Apple Vision Pro represents a breakthrough in spatial computing technology, taking the shape of an augmented reality headset. Distinguishing itself from virtual reality, the Vision Pro offers users a blend of their real-world surroundings with digital imagery overlaid seamlessly. Essentially, it transforms the physical environment into a dynamic computer desktop experience.
Spatial computing, distinct from virtual reality (VR).
The differentiation between spatial computing and virtual reality carries significant weight. Despite favorable gaming sales and consistent enterprise uptake, virtual reality has struggled to gain traction in the mainstream consumer market.
This outcome is hardly unexpected. As highlighted by various analysts over the last five years, a notable segment of the population encounters “VR sickness” when utilizing VR hardware. Additionally, even experienced VR reviewers have occasionally experienced disorientation or nausea.
Spatial computing has demonstrated broader comfort levels thus far. Rather than immersing users in a virtual environment, it employs cameras to present the space they currently occupy. As a result, users experience less detachment from their surroundings, enabling interaction with others and enhancing safety by providing visibility of and ability to navigate around real-world obstacles while wearing the headset.
This aspect could potentially facilitate a smoother adoption process for Apple compared to VR manufacturers. Moreover, if leading players in the metaverse realm envision its future through augmented reality rather than virtual reality, the next significant shift in technology hardware could be imminent.
Recall the iPhone.
Arguably, the iPhone stands as the most triumphant consumer technology innovation of the 21st century. Its introduction propelled Apple, a company then reliant on financial support from entities like Microsoft to remain solvent, to attain the status of the world’s most valuable company for multiple consecutive years.
Upon its debut in 2007, the iPhone commanded a price equivalent to slightly over $700 in 2024. During its inaugural week, Apple managed to sell only 270,000 units in the U.S.
On the contrary, the Apple Vision Pro currently carries a price tag five times higher, at $3,499. Although first-week sales figures are not available at the time of this article’s publication, preorders have purportedly surpassed 200,000.
Reflecting on the iPhone, initial sales in 2007 amounted to just 1.4 million units, yielding approximately $630 million in revenue. However, by 2021, iPhone sales alone contributed nearly $200 billion in revenue to the company.
Head-mounted computers
The idea of wearing a computer on your face may initially seem unconventional, but it’s reminiscent of past skepticism towards touchscreen phones, which were once deemed impractical. Similarly, it’s challenging to envision a future where everyone utilizes augmented reality headsets, especially considering past reliance on tactile interactions with physical buttons.
However, augmented reality headsets hold the potential to foster greater human connection. Instead of being absorbed in screens, individuals could engage with the world around them while overlaying relevant information as needed. Face-to-face interactions could incorporate multimedia elements without the need to divert attention to screens.
Moreover, advancements in technology enable individuals wearing face computers to maintain eye contact, facilitating more natural interactions.
