The wait is finally over. Today, on January 19, Apple will begin accepting pre-orders for its mixed reality headset, dubbed the Apple Vision Pro. The device, which starts at a whopping $3,499, promises to revolutionise the way we interact with technology and media. Here’s everything you need to know about the headset and the pre-order process ahead of the release. Pre-orders open soon If you hope to get your hands on one of the first Apple Vision Pro headsets shipping next month, you'll need to pre-order starting at 8AM Eastern time today. The initial supply of the headset is expected to be limited, so ordering early will be key for those hoping for a launch day delivery when the Vision Pro starts arriving on doorsteps February 2. Interestingly, Apple says you'll need an iOS device on hand when ordering the Vision Pro online. The company recommends having an up-to-date Apple Store app installed. Your iPhone or iPad will be used during checkout to scan your face with FaceID, allowing Apple to customise the fit of your Vision Pro by determining the right size Light Seal and adjustable headbands. What's in the box? Given its near-$3,500 price, it's a good thing the Apple Vision Pro comes with more than just a headset. In the box, you'll find the headset itself with 256GB of storage, along with multiple interchangeable band options so you can tweak the fit. Apple includes the Solo Knit Band, Dual Loop Band, Light Seal, Light Seal Cushions, a cover, polishing cloth, battery pack, wall adapter, and USB-C cable. Optional prescription lenses that magnetically snap into the headset can also be purchased for $99 (reader lenses) or $149 (custom prescription) per pair. You'll need a current prescription for the latter. What can the headset do? Apple has described Vision Pro as a productivity and entertainment device capable of mirroring your Mac's display for portable multitasking. You'll also be able to access iPhone and iPad apps like FaceTime, Photos and Apple TV for movies and streaming. Gaming is expected to be a major focus, with immersive 3D titles developed for Vision Pro. Out of the box, Vision Pro will have access to many familiar Apple apps including TV, FaceTime, Messages, Mail, Photos and Safari. An App Store tailored for AR will also be available, with Disney+ confirmed as a launch app. For gaming, Apple Arcade titles will be playable in 2D on the headset's virtual screens. In terms of entertainment, you'll be able to watch movies and shows either in a personalized theater environment or floating virtual screen. This includes access to Apple TV+, purchased iTunes content, and various streaming services. Excitingly, 3D movies will also be supported natively through Apple TV and Disney+, delivering immersive theater-like experiences. Just be sure to keep Vision Pro charged, as battery life is estimated around 2 hours. While questions remain regarding Vision Pro's full capabilities, Apple is clearly positioning it as an AR solution for entertainment, productivity and gaming. Precise details will become clearer as we inch closer to its expected 2023 consumer launch. How can I try it? Starting February 2, Apple retail stores will offer hands-on demos of the Vision Pro by appointment - again in the US. A Bloomberg report says you can expect an in-depth fitting process lasting up to 25 minutes, as employees help find your ideal Light Seal size and determine if you'd benefit from custom prescription lenses. This will be the only way to experience the headset before launch, so book your slot as soon as possible if you're still on the fence. Will the Vision Pro launch in India? We still don't have an official launch date for the headset in India. For now, we'll have to hang tight until Apple gives us more details. According to Bloomberg, after the headset drops in the US, Apple is eyeing the UK, Canada, and China as some of the first places outside America where people can get their hands on it. So it wouldn’t be far-fetched to assume that India could be on the list too further down the road. It's worth noting this is still an experimental product for Apple, so they're going to try it out in a few regions first before rolling it out everywhere.
