Metaverse Reality: Is the Apple Vision Pro suitable for the Metaverse & Virtual & Augmented & Extended Reality?

Apple's recently announced Apple Vision Pro Headset is a significant entry into the world of augmented and virtual reality and has the potential to shape the future of the Metaverse. With its advanced features, seamless integration and ambitious price, the Vision Pro aims to revolutionize the gaming industry and empower users with immersive experiences.

The Vision Pro is designed to offer “spatial computing,” a term Apple uses to describe the merging of the real and virtual worlds. It has advanced features such as eye tracking, hand gesture recognition, and immersive gaming experiences. The device resembles futuristic ski goggles and is expected to launch early next year with a price tag of $3,500.

Spatial computing is a term that refers to a technology in which the computer senses and uses the physical environment to integrate virtual content into the real world. It is an advanced form of computing that not only takes place on a screen, but also takes into account the user's spatial experience and interaction.

Spatial computing combines various technologies and concepts such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), 3D modeling, computer vision and machine learning to create immersive and interactive experiences. By collecting and analyzing data about the physical environment, computer-generated content can be seamlessly embedded into the real world.

An example of spatial computing is the use of AR glasses or headsets that allow the user to see and interact with virtual objects or information in the real world. This technology opens up applications in various fields such as gaming, education, architecture, medicine, design and many others.

The goal of spatial computing is to create an immersive and intuitive user experience by blurring the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds. It enables the manipulation and display of virtual content in real time based on the environment and the user's actions. The integration of spatial perception and interaction creates a new dimension of computing that offers a wide range of possible applications.

Spatial computing was described by Simon Greenwold in 2003 as “human interaction with a machine in which the machine maintains and manipulates references to real objects and spaces.”

With the advent of consumer virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality, companies such as Microsoft and Magic Leap are using the term "spatial computing" to refer to the use of physical actions (head and body movements, gestures, speech) as inputs to interactive computing digital media systems, where the perceived physical 3D space serves as a canvas for video, audio and haptic output. It is also linked to the concept of “digital twins”.

Apple Vision Pro, a wearable spatial computing headset on the Apple website - Apple's newly launched innovative first spatial computing device - Image: gg5795|Shutterstock.com

Apple announced the Vision Pro, a spatial computing platform, on June 5, 2023. It has various features such as spatial audio, two micro-OLED displays, the Apple R1 chip and eye tracking. The device is expected to launch in the United States in 2024.

For media professionals, 3D artists, online, media and advertising agencies and other service providers: Take advantage of the opportunity to offer your customers their own metaverse by drawing on the expertise of Xpert.Digital and its partners. In addition, you can integrate our Metaverse configurator into your service offering as a white label solution.

Agency Metaverse Configurator – Image: Xpert.Digital

More about it here:

• Agency Metaverse Configurator (White Label Solution) 

Apple website with the newly launched 'Apple Vision Pro' - Apple's first device for 'Spatial Comuting' - Image: gg5795|Shutterstock.com

The Apple Vision Pro Headset features a body made of three-dimensionally shaped laminated glass that curves around the user's face. It is equipped with advanced cameras and sensors that enable clear vision, understanding of the environment and recognition of hand input. Spatial audio is output through speakers positioned close to the user's ears, blending with the sounds of the real world.

Key specs of the Apple Vision Pro headset include 4K resolution per eye, hand tracking, voice input, an external battery, and a two-hour battery life. The headset runs the visionOS operating system and is expected to cost $3,500.

The term "Apple Vision Pro" refers to Apple's mixed reality headset that was announced at the WWDC23 keynote. The headset is intended to provide a spatial computing experience by seamlessly merging digital content with the physical space around the user. It allows users to navigate with their eyes, hands and voice.

The WWDC keynote is the inaugural event of the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), held annually by Apple. WWDC is a developer conference where Apple introduces developers to new software, technologies and tools that will be released in the coming months.

The keynote presentation is the main event of WWDC and traditionally takes place on the first day. During the keynote, senior Apple representatives, such as CEO Tim Cook or other executives, give presentations highlighting Apple's latest announcements and updates. The keynote presentation is often highly anticipated as it offers insights into new products, software updates and possible technological innovations.

New versions of Apple's operating systems, such as iOS for iPhones and iPads, macOS for Mac computers, watchOS for Apple Watches, and tvOS for Apple TVs, are typically introduced during the WWDC keynote. In addition, new hardware products, developer tools, software developments and other important announcements may also be made.

The WWDC keynote offers developers and the public the opportunity to get a first look at Apple's latest innovations and prepare for upcoming changes in the Apple world. The event is often streamed live, giving people around the world the opportunity to follow the announcements in real time.

Apple website introducing the newly launched Apple Vision Pro - Apple's first spatial computing device - Image: gg5795|Shutterstock.com

The Vision Pro Headset offers advanced features such as eye tracking and hand gesture recognition, enabling developers to create immersive gaming experiences that respond directly to the player's movements. The headset offers an intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate through various applications using eye and hand tracking technology. Furthermore, it promises to seamlessly merge digital content with the physical world, offering users the opportunity to interact with digital content as if it were physically present in their space.

However, it's worth noting that public interest in a headset that costs $3,500 is still uncertain. While the Vision Pro Headset has generated excitement and is seen as a significant product in the AR/VR space, mass adoption and widespread use in the metaverse has yet to be determined.

In conclusion, the Apple Vision Pro Headset has the potential to contribute to the Metaverse by offering advanced features and immersive experiences in the gaming industry. The seamless integration of digital content into the physical world and the intuitive user interface offer users new ways to interact with virtual and augmented reality experiences. However, its suitability for the metaverse and adoption by the general public will depend on factors such as market acceptance, affordability and further technological advances.

The initial reviews and opinions of the Vision Pro were mixed. Some skeptics doubt Apple's ability to make virtual reality mainstream, while others see Apple's track record and design expertise as an indicator of potential success in the field. The high price of $3,500 is also an issue. However, Apple's entry into the mixed reality market has caused great excitement and anticipation in the tech community.

This year's Apple WWDC keynote was dominated by the unveiling of the Apple Vision Pro, despite numerous other announcements. The mixed reality headset is scheduled for an early 2024 release and is expected to be priced at $3,500. It is designed to be used primarily in the productivity sector.

The Apple Vision Pro is considered a groundbreaking device that offers a combination of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). It allows users to seamlessly integrate digital content into their physical environment and interact with it interactively. The headset is said to offer advanced technologies such as powerful processors, high-resolution displays, precise tracking functions and an ergonomic design for long-lasting comfort.

The focus of the Apple Vision Pro is on the productivity sector, which suggests that it is designed for professional applications. The headset is expected to offer features that can improve collaboration, communication and efficiency in various work environments. From virtual offices and meeting spaces to advanced visualization tools for designers and engineers, Apple Vision Pro promises a new level of productivity.

Although the $3,500 price tag may be considered high, the Apple Vision Pro is expected to be a premium product aimed at professional users. The expected release in 2024 gives Apple plenty of time to further optimize the headset and develop a comprehensive ecosystem of applications and content.

With the unveiling of the Apple Vision Pro, Apple once again demonstrates its commitment to the advancement of AR and VR technologies and its ambitions to shape the field of mixed reality. The headset's release has been highly anticipated as it has the potential to change the way we interact with digital content and our physical surroundings.

Apple would probably like to, but can't keep up for development and resulting cost reasons. The price for extended or mixed reality also probably appeals to a smaller target group in the premium segment. If that works out? We'll see.