Apple Vision Pro headset gets a release date, but Indians need to wait a little longer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqTIB_q40bo

Apple dropped the retail availability of the Vision Pro ahead of CES 2024, the world’s biggest tech trade show currently underway in Las Vegas. Even though Apple has been mostly absent from the annual CES for years, the company is known for making “surprise” announcements around the same time CES begins.

Apple said it will begin taking preorders for the Vision Pro on Jan 19, and the headset will be available at all US stores and the online store beginning February 2 (Image credit: Apple)

The Vision Pro is Apple’s first new product in years since the launch of the Apple Watch in 2015. The headset is a new type of device, far different from the smartphone we use. Apple hopes the Vision Pro will make spatial computing and mixed reality mainstream, just like the iPhone did with apps and a multi-touch interface. The Vision Pro runs on VisionOS, a brand-new operating system, and the device allows users to interact through their eyes, gestures, and voice.

The mixed-reality headset is Cupertino’s most advanced product. However, analysts and trade pundits do not expect the Vision Pro to generate significant revenues in the first few years. Apple is likely to take a wait-and-see approach, given how niche this segment is right now. It also remains to be seen whether a product like this will resonate with consumers. After all, Apple wants you to wear a computer…over your face.

Even though Apple’s first attempt at bringing a computer to the user’s face seems promising, the Cupertino company, like its competitors, has yet to create a compelling use case that would bring people to use a headset like this. Apple clearly wants the Vision Pro to make as big of an impression as the iPhone. But for now, the Vision Pro is more of a Generation 1 product aimed at architects and developers than an average person.