To say that Apple’s WWDC 2023 keynote was packed would be an understatement. The company introduced the Vision Pro, its first foray into mixed reality headsets, as well as a 15-inch MacBook Air. There was also an updated Mac Studio and Mac Pro, both of which use the equally new M2 Ultra chip. As you’d expect Apple announced significant upgrades to all its software platforms.
Apple Vision Pro
It’s safe to say the Vision Pro was Apple’s marquee device at WWDC. It’s a standalone mixed reality headset with very powerful specs, including an M2 chip (plus an R1 companion chip), 4K displays for each eye and nearly a dozen cameras and sensors that allow for hand gesture input and 3D photography. There’s even an external screen that shows your eyes and notifies others when you’re using apps.
The Vision Pro runs visionOS, a new platform designed from the ground up for spatial computing. It centers on a mixed reality 3D interface that makes apps, FaceTime calls and other tasks effectively float in physical space. You can control your Mac, play games and run iPad apps using a virtual screen. Disney is even planning a suite of experiences that include a Disney+ app.
The headset won’t be cheap. Apple will sell Vision Pro for $3,499, and it won’t be available until early 2024. This is a wearable computer for developers, and Apple is pricing it accordingly.
Leave a Reply