During Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference, the spotlight shone brightly on the company’s advancements in mixed reality, highlighted by the introduction of new markets for the Apple Vision Pro headset and an innovative operating system. The Vision Pro is set to launch in China, Japan, Singapore, Australia, Canada, France, and the U.K. beginning in mid-July, with a starting price of $3,499 and available storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB.
Despite its initial launch being limited to the U.S., Apple successfully sold 200,000 headsets in just the first 10 days of pre-orders, solidifying its position as the leading consumer-focused mixed-reality headset on the market. CEO Tim Cook expressed excitement about expanding access, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the magic of spatial computing to more customers around the world. We can’t wait for more people to experience the impossible becoming possible—whether collaborating with an infinite canvas for apps, reliving cherished memories in three dimensions, enjoying shows and movies in a personal cinema, or embarking on new spatial experiences that challenge the imagination.”
Vision Pro's operating system has also undergone a significant transformation with the announcement of visionOS 2. This latest version introduces enhancements that elevate user engagement and app development for the headset. Key features include advanced photo-sharing capabilities, refined navigation controls, higher display resolution, and a suite of new productivity tools. Developers will benefit from a range of new APIs and frameworks designed to facilitate app creation, with the updated OS set for release this fall.
Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president for Vision products, highlighted the potential of visionOS 2 in revolutionizing user and developer experiences: “Apple Vision Pro delivers revolutionary experiences, and we’re excited to advance spatial computing with visionOS 2 just months after its initial launch. The robust set of tools enables developers to create richer spatial applications, making Vision Pro even more powerful.”
Significant updates to the Mac Virtual Display app promise enhanced resolution, equivalent to two 4K monitors side by side. Users will enjoy improved customization options for app arrangement, the ability to connect a mouse, and visibility of their physical keyboard even while engaged with immersive apps. New hand gestures have been designed to simplify navigation, granting easy access to frequently used applications along with essential information such as time, battery life, and volume control.
Further advancements cater to enterprise developers, with versatile applications in various industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace. Early adopters like Scandit AG and TeamViewer are utilizing the headset for barcode scanning and object tracking purposes, showcasing the device's practical capabilities.
The update also introduces a travel mode, enhancing the headset’s usability on the go, allowing users to transform their environments dynamically. Additionally, features aimed at accessibility, such as live caption generation for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, underline the commitment to inclusive technology.
An overhaul of spatial photos now enables users to convert 2D images into dynamic visuals and share these creations seamlessly with other Vision Pro and iPhone 15 Pro users. Additionally, a forthcoming update to the Apple TV app will introduce multiview support, allowing users to stream up to five different programs simultaneously, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
As Apple forges ahead with the Vision Pro and visionOS 2, the potential for immersive technology and its applications in both personal and professional spheres continues to expand, positioning Apple at the forefront of spatial computing innovation.
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