Apple Vision Pro is hereand taking the world of augmented and virtual reality by storm. While you may have noticed its design and display and other flashy features duringApple’s big demolate last year, we’re betting you don’t know everything the new mixed reality headset has to offer. It has a treasure trove of features, honestly.
Apple Vision Pro: Everything you need to know about the Apple VR headset
Apple has announced its mixed reality headset, looking to start a new chapter in spatial computing.
We’re diving into 15 Apple Vision Pro features you might not have heard about yet – from custom Zeiss lens inserts to a dedicated OS for spatial computing. It’s interesting to consider all the bells and whistles, whether you’re looking to buy or just curious, as Apple’s headset is poised to redefine how we use technology.
Apple Vision Pro
Apple Vision Pro will be available starting at $3,499 with 256GB of storage. Pre-orders for Apple Vision Pro began on Friday, Jan. 19, with availability beginning Friday, Feb. 2.
13D Persona
The future is avatar video calls
Leveraing the Apple Vision Pro’s TrueDepth camera system for a high-fidelity capture of your facial features, the 3D Persona feature scans your face to create a lifelike digital twin that mimics expressions and gestures in real-time during video calls. This avatar can add a layer of personal interaction that’s often missing in traditional video calls. It works in communication platforms like FaceTime, Teams, Webex, andZoom.
2Automated spatial awareness
Prevents you from colliding with physical objects
This protective feature ensures safety and usability across various applications, from virtual training environments where you need to move around to home-use where you may want to avoid bumping into furniture. The Apple Vision Pro’s sophisticated spatial mapping algorithms work behind the scenes to understand and adapt to your surroundings, providing real-time alerts to prevent collisions with physical objects.
3Custom Zeiss lens inserts
Don’t cram frames under the headset
If you normally wear glasses, these custom inserts mean you won’t have to cram your frames under the headset. You can engage in long VR sessions without discomfort or the hassle of blurred vision, as the Vision Pro accommodates prescriptions up to ±8.50 diopters, with a magnetic attachment system that ensures they can be swapped with ease.
4EyeSight technology
Displays a representation of your eyes
The headset has a low-resolutionOLEDpanel overlaid with a lenticular lens to simulate the 3D appearance of your eyes. It tries to reduce the barrier between you and others when you’re immersed in VR, by displaying a representation of your eyes on the headset. This can maintain a sense of connection with people around you, making the technology less isolating.
5Spatial audio integration
Works with AirPods Pro
Spatial audio, when used withAirPods Pro, offers an immersive sound experience that can be pivotal for professionals in fields like education or therapy, where environmental sounds play a crucial role in simulations and treatments. You benefit from an ultra-low latency connection, with clear, detailed sound that adapts to your movements and interactions.
6M2 and R1 chipsets
Advanced computational capabilities
The Vision Pro is a computational powerhouse, capable of handling complex 3D environments, advanced physics simulations, and intensive data analysis. It has two chips:The M2 and R1. The M2 chip, boasting 20 billion transistors, delivers an 18% increase in CPU performance compared to its predecessor. The specialized R1 chip, meanwhile, focuses on processing inputs from the headset’s extensive array of sensors, including 12 cameras, 5 sensors, 6 microphones, and a Lidar sensor. This processing power is valuable for researchers and designers working with spatial data and 3D modeling.
Secure authentication
Optic ID, developed by Apple, uses LED light to analyze the iris for unlocking the device and confirmingApple Paytransactions right from the headset. This protects personal data securely. The information from Optic ID is encrypted and kept in the device’sSecure Enclave. Also, eye-tracking and sensor data are handled on the device itself to prevent unauthorized access. For added transparency, there are visual indicators when photos and videos are being taken.
8Gesture-based interface
Powered by eye and hand tracking
The inclusion of infrared sensors and high-resolution cameras throughout the headset allows for precise tracking of your eye movements and hand gestures, making conventional controllers feel archaic in comparison. The head and hand tracking, real-time 3D mapping, and eye-tracking are not only highly accurate but also lightning-fast, with data processing taking just 12 milliseconds. This control system facilitates more natural interaction with digital content.
9Wireless Mac display extension
Ecosystem continuity
The Vision Pro acts as an extension of your Mac. Extending yourMac’sdisplay into a virtual space can revolutionize remote work and learning, allowing for a more flexible and spacious digital workspace without physical constraints. This wireless integration supports a full suite of continuity features, too, including Handoff and Universal Clipboard.
10Spatial camera system
Enables 3D content creation
Featuring advanced depth-sensing technology and high-resolution image capture, the Apple Vision Pro’s camera system is capable of recording spatial photos and videos. For creatives and content creators, the ability to capture spatial photos and videos opens up new avenues for storytelling and art, allowing you to capture moments with a depth and realism that flat images simply can’t convey today.
