More than a year after the release of Apple’s first-generation Vision Pro AR headset, the inevitable follow-up has arrived. Launching with a more measured advertising campaign, this new system looks to improve on the capabilities of its predecessor without significant redesign. Much like each new generation of iPhone or iPad, the new platform is slightly faster and more capable, and for fans of augmented reality, this potential could make the new device a must-have.
What is the Vision Pro?
The Vision Pro is a dual augmented and virtual reality headset, originally launched in 2022. The primary design and use of the system provided a best-in-class example of mixed reality use with Apple’s trademark emphasis on quality. In essence, the system uses built-in cameras to record the area in front of the user, which are then translated digitally and sent to the internal screens. This digitisation combined with depth tracking then allows digital elements to be overlaid in a faked version of the real world that the user sees.
“3D illustration of Apple vision Pro head” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by k00290256
Actual uses of this technology vary considerably. It can be used as a tool to explore 3D models, paint in 3D space, or project a miniaturised version of supported sports games into an environment like a table. It can also be used in more traditional entertainment uses, like acting as a virtualised browser screen. Users could then operate this screen as they would on a regular device.
This virtualised screen support has already proven popular in letting users create screens of any size, and place them anywhere in the environment. Jackpot casino games stretched out onto a wall are a popular example, mimicking giant novelty slots you might see in a place like Vegas. Series like Age of the Gods and Fire Blaze, or just general browsing or entertainment use can then act just as they do on computers and mobiles, only in a much more flexible window. The new system, upgraded, aims to upgrade this experience with new features.
“SZ1_3421” (CC BY 2.0) by websummitqatar
The New Generation
The upgraded Vision Pro offers a few key advantages over the former model. The first is a faster M5 processing chip, providing better performance and support in demanding situations. This is bolstered by a jump in supported frame rate, which helps motion clarity and reduces eye strain. Backed by improved battery life and a more comfortable mounting mechanism, the newer system boasts support for over a million apps, though most won’t support the full functionality of the Vision Pro’s special potential.
Who is This For?
As promising as AR is, it’s not yet a technology that many people will need. Instead, it’s more of an exploration into what comes next, with Apple leading the way in developing the best-quality model given the limits of today’s technology. Ultimately, this system serves as a kind of testing ground, putting the company in a place where it can leverage its investment when better support for the system eventually arrives. Exactly how long that will take, and what apps might make this system indispensable for users, that much remains in question, at least for now.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
