Took me a couple weeks to edit this video (Final Cut Pro on the iPad and I aren’t getting along) but now it is available! I tried on the Vision Pro in person at the Store and gave my reaction in video format. One thing I didn’t realize was the Video Boost feature on the Pixel 8 Pro is limited to 10 minutes maximum, so part of my hands on was cut short (the demo last ~25 minutes). Definitely something for me to note in the future that breaking up these files when I record is actually helpful to get all the footage run through that service.
I fed my entire transcript into ChatGPT to see what it would pull out of my experience. Here’s what it thought was important:
A Blogger’s First-Hand Experience with Apple Vision Pro
In a candid exploration of Apple’s foray into virtual and augmented reality, a tech enthusiast shares their initial impressions of the Vision Pro headset. This journey begins in an Apple Store parking lot, with excitement and a hint of disappointment for not having early access to a review unit. Despite financial constraints, the blogger’s dedication to experiencing the latest in VR/AR technology firsthand is palpable.
From Virtual Boy to Vision Pro: A VR Journey
The blogger recounts their long-standing fascination with VR, tracing back to the days of Nintendo’s Virtual Boy. Owning an array of headsets, including the HTC Vive and Oculus Quest 2, they’ve witnessed the evolution of virtual reality firsthand. The Vision Pro, with its promise of unparalleled resolution and AR capabilities, beckons as the next big leap.
The Vision Pro Experience: First Impressions
Upon entering the Apple Store, the blogger’s anticipation meets reality. The Vision Pro stands out with its metal construction and prescription insert options, addressing the common discomforts faced by glasses wearers in the VR world. The detailed process of fitting and exploring the headset’s capabilities, including hand-tracking and the utility of multiple windows in AR, showcases Apple’s meticulous approach to user experience.
The conversation with store personnel reveals the Vision Pro’s dual nature as both a developer’s tool and a luxury consumer product. The headset’s immersive capabilities, from AR multitasking to enjoying 3D sports content, underscore its potential to revolutionize both work and entertainment.
Technical Insights and Comparisons
The blogger delves into the technical aspects of the Vision Pro, noting its superior resolution and the depth of immersion compared to current VR headsets. The ease of interaction, facilitated by intuitive gestures and hand tracking, highlights Apple’s commitment to a seamless user interface. The inclusion of prescription inserts and the discussion on the headset’s weight and comfort offer a comprehensive overview of its wearability.
A Dev Kit in Disguise?
Despite its consumer-friendly presentation, the Vision Pro is perceived as a developer’s kit, signaling Apple’s cautious entry into the VR/AR market. The comparison with Google Glass and the discussion on the future of VR/AR technology reflect on the broader implications of Apple’s entry into this space.
Final Thoughts: The Future of VR/AR
Concluding the review, the blogger reflects on the Vision Pro’s place in the evolution of personal computing devices. While not yet a replacement for smartphones or computers, the headset represents a significant step toward a future where VR/AR technology becomes an integral part of our digital lives. The mention of battery life and the practicality of using the Vision Pro in various settings rounds out a thorough examination of its current capabilities and potential.
Engaging with the Vision Pro
This firsthand account invites readers to consider the Vision Pro not just as a piece of technology, but as a gateway to new forms of interaction and immersion. The blogger’s journey from anticipation to analysis offers a detailed glimpse into the promise and challenges of integrating VR/AR into our everyday lives.