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Apple Vision Pro

Definition: The Apple Vision Pro is a groundbreaking XR device from Apple, described as the company's first spatial computer. The headset enables a seamless transition between AR and VR (mixed reality).

It represents a significant advancement in wearable technology by combining the digital and physical worlds in an innovative way. The device uses a new operating system called visionOS, which supports a fully three-dimensional user interface that users can interact with using their eyes, hands and voice.

Apple Vision Pro

The device also supports a wide range of applications, from productivity to entertainment, and can run existing iOS and iPadOS applications in a new spatial format. This allows users to interact with their favorite apps in a new and more immersive way.

Designed for entertainment as well as professional and creative use, Apple Vision Pro is a versatile tool for a wide range of applications.

Key features of Apple Vision Pro

  • Ultra-high-resolution display: The device features an ultra-high-resolution display that spans 23 million pixels across two screens, delivering more than 4K television quality to each eye.
  • Advanced materials and design: The compact and powerful design features a special aluminum alloy frame and glass that acts as both a protective cover and an interactive surface.
  • Spatial sound: Vision Pro features a sophisticated spatial audio system that enhances the immersive experience with sounds that seem to come from the surrounding environment.

Research and Development

Breakthroughs like Apple Vision Pro don't happen overnight. They're the result of years of intensive research and development (R&D) that continues to push the boundaries of technological innovation. The investment in R&D is significant and covers all stages from early concept development to rigorous product testing.

Premium materials and craftsmanship

Apple has built its reputation on attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials, and the Apple Vision Pro is a prime example. With a durable yet lightweight frame and advanced optical components, it embodies Apple's commitment to quality and long-lasting performance.

Innovative features and functions

Apple Vision Pro is much more than a display - it's an ecosystem. With innovations such as custom ZEISS optical inserts, storage capacities of up to 1 TB and seamless integration with the wider Apple ecosystem, including AirPods and Apple services, it offers a range of features that go beyond traditional technology.

Technical aspects

Apple Vision Pro uses several advanced technologies to create the Mixed Reality experience. Here is an overview of the key technologies:

  • M2 chip: Vision Pro is powered by Apple's M2 chip, which provides the processing power needed to handle advanced graphics, sensor data and complex applications.
  • R1 chip: In addition to the M2 chip, Vision Pro includes the R1 chip, which is specifically designed to process input from the device's sensors (such as cameras, LIDAR, and microphones) and ensure low-latency output to the displays.
  • Optical system: Vision Pro features a custom optical system with high-resolution micro-OLED displays for each eye.
  • Optic ID: A secure authentication system that uses iris recognition technology for device security and user authentication, enhancing privacy and security.
  • Eye tracking: Using advanced eye-tracking technology, Vision Pro detects where users are looking, enabling intuitive interaction with the user interface and applications through eye-based control.
  • EyeSight technology: This feature allows users to maintain visual contact with others, even when fully immersed in the virtual environment. It projects the user's eyes onto the external display for natural eye contact and presence.
  • Hand and gesture tracking: Vision Pro uses cameras and sensors to track hand movements and gestures. This allows users to interact with virtual objects naturally, without the need for external controls.
  • Spatial audio: Vision Pro is equipped with spatial audio technology that makes sounds appear to come from specific locations in the virtual or real environment, making the experience even more immersive.
  • LIDAR and depth sensors: These sensors capture the environment in real time, allowing Vision Pro to accurately place virtual objects in the real world and interact with physical objects in the environment.
  • Pass-through cameras: Vision Pro uses high-resolution cameras to provide a clear view of the real world through the headset. This creates an immersive experience where users can see and interact with both virtual and real elements simultaneously.

The combination of these technologies creates a highly advanced mixed reality experience that sets Apple Vision Pro apart from other headsets on the market.

Apple AR platform

Apple has its AR platform called ARKit, designed specifically for iOS devices. Vision Pro uses ARKit-based technologies together with custom hardware and software solutions to create mixed reality experiences. The Apple ecosystem is tightly integrated and Apple develops its own tools and frameworks, such as ARKit, to ensure optimal performance and a seamless user experience across devices.

The operating system of the Apple Vision Pro has been designed specifically for this device and runs under the name VisionOS.

Numbers and statistics

  • Apple's investment in AR/VR: Apple has invested more than $3 billion in augmented and virtual reality research and development recently to enable products such as Vision Pro. (Source)
  • Apple Vision Pro sales projections: Experts expect Apple Vision Pro to sell around 1-1.5 million units in the first two years, which is remarkable for a premium mixed reality product. (Source)

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