Apple Vision Pro assessment: six month limbo

After six months of using Apple Vision Pro, it feels like things are stuck. The $3,500 product is harder to swallow because of a slow rollout of immersive content and a lack native apps. Apple Vision Pro can be frustrating. It’s also one of my favorite pieces of technology. It’s beautifully crafted and the software can sometimes feel magical. It makes using apps feel intuitive, just like iPad did in 2010. Subscribe to AppleInsider YouTubeWhimsy can only take a product so much. Apple Vision Pro, as I mentioned in my one-month report, needs evangelists to push for more apps, games, and media that utilize the format. The progress is painfully slow. The issues I will mention here and in other reviews are all related being an early adopter. There’s a chance that buyers in 2025 or beyond won’t experience these issues. The platform will work fine eventually. This review is for today, six months after the product was launched. Apple Vision Pro is an amazing product, I will tell you. It’s an amazing vision of the future from Apple, but it is still a young product and too immature to appeal to mainstream audiences. Apple must move the needle on Apple Vision Pro. We risk it falling to the back of the line until something cheaper revives it in a few more years, similar to what happened to the HomePod. If you read the one-month review I did on AppleInsider, you will know that I was critical of visionOS 1.0’s shortcomings and the lack native experiences. Two months after the original review, I received a new 13-inch iPad Pro M4 that challenged me to rethink my computing lifestyle. Apple Vision Pro review – great hardware in search for good software. I had to review this product by living it, just as I did with Apple Vision Pro. I was so interested in the iPad platform that the headset fell to the back of my mind for the first month. While reviewing the product, I lamented not having as much experience with Apple Vision Pro. However, I knew that this might change after WWDC. I was partially right, as visionOS 2 addressed some of my initial complaints. Soon, more on that. Between July and early August, Apple Vision Pro and the iPad Pro lived together. Apple Vision Pro was still the best focusing tool, even though I preferred the iPad Pro’s amazing display and its ability to transform into any computer I desired. The timeline from March to August for Apple Vision Pro: It hasn’t been quiet, but it appears that developers, creators and accessory makers are reluctant. Leading developers have said that the time and energy spent on creating native experiences is not generating a return. Apple Vision Pro is still my favorite because it can transport me to a different place, stack windows around me and make me feel as if I’m really interacting with the software. It’s the same whimsical and new feeling I felt when using iPad for my main computer. Apple Vision Pro review – building a hybrid computerThis is a good example of Apple being stuck in its own novelty quagmire. Six months after the launch, the lack of developer and creator assistance on the platform remains a problem. This will be a major problem for the longevity and viability of the product. Let’s take a look at what has been good and bad in the past few months. I think there’s a lot more potential for Apple Vision Pro, and the visionOS platform. But only if Apple shows more commitment than they do today. visionOS 2 makes Apple Vision Pro even more compelling. The biggest news in the last six months for Apple Vision Pro has to be visionOS 2 Apple revealed the new operating system just four months after it was released. This shows that Apple is listening to its customers. Apple Vision Pro review – visionOS 2 is an improvementMany of my problems with visionOS 1 were fixed. New gestures can be used to summon the Home View and Control Center. For example, you don’t need to roll your eyes back into your head. Click the dot that appears on your palm to open Home View. Flip your palm over to see the clock, battery and volume. Slide it and grab it to adjust the volume. Or tap it to open Control Center. Much better. Apple’s Magic Keyboard, which is available now, and the keyboard on a MacBook used for Virtual Display can cut through immersive environments. Unfortunately, this feature does not work with non Apple keyboards and it is unlikely to be available anytime soon. Apple Vision Pro review – new gestures and keyboard passesthroughThis is still in beta, and will not be available to the general public until launch. Apple hasn’t released a public beta of visionOS 2. This is probably because anyone who wants to buy Apple Vision Pro or use visionOS 2 will likely be enrolled in the developer program. The 2D photo conversion is the most impressive feature of visionOS 2. The Photos app converts any photo into 3D. It’s a great effect. Apple Vision Pro will benefit from new APIs and tracking updates. Developers will need to build for the headset to make this matter. VisionOS 2 has more features, such as improved Personas or an ultra-wide virtual Mac view. However, these features are not in the beta version or haven’t been finalized. Apple has clearly taken a step forward with visionOS 2, and it shows that they are committed to improving Apple Vision Pro, despite the low sales volume. You may find that your mileage varies, as ours did. This is where I use the royal “we”. Mike Wuerthele is our Managing Editor at AppleInsider and is literally right over my shoulder. This is why he is also credited in this piece. I would be remiss to not mention his points in this review, as they provide a different perspective on the product. Apple Vision Pro Review: One device per person is not enough in enterprise He has continued to speak to his friends from Fortune 500 and the government. Although there are high expectations, things aren’t improving. He was able to test the hardware pre-release with a friend, and again after its release with other people. Early previews and adoptions after release were more concerned with the promise than the actual state of the hardware-software combo. Pricing is still a problem in the big business. There are no discounts for high volume sales, which is a major problem for the majority of buyers. At this point, shared profiles are still not available in a meaningful way. This is an intentional omission. Apple claims that the device is personal and only sells a single set of software for the facial fitting. But this isn’t a big obstacle to overcome, especially when the alternative costs $3500 per user. We were told that a shared device system is needed by every enterprise, government or trade representative we spoke to. They’re also disappointed that visionOS 2.0 didn’t include this feature. Apple fixed Travel Mode in the train. We can confirm, without going into detail, that it works with visionOS 2.0. Mike in his hard-hat. Note the overhang and proximity of brim with Digital CrownWe’ve seen some interesting solutions for a problem we previously pointed out — a hard-hat brim can periodically make contact with Digital Crown, causing a bad user experience. One of the companies we spoke to came up with a simple but ugly solution. They placed sticky electronics device foot that is taller than the crown on both the left and the right side of the Digital Crown. When the user or hard hat moves, the crown is not in contact. It’s also nearly impossible to be precise because the pass-through camera hasn’t changed at all and won’t change until another headset is released. The pass-through camera is superior to other headsets, but the depth is not mapped exactly when wearing it compared to when it’s off. It can also be distorted if you are not perfectly centered. There is no clever solution to this problem. Since then, we’ve heard of more attempts to train users in businesses. No one generation or trade seems to be more willing to use this headset than another. Apple Vision Pro review – except in bright rooms, everything is murky and dim. These enterprises are restricted by hardware and software restrictions. The potential is there. Apple seems to be unwilling to help unlock this potential. The multi-user simulation Mike used in 2023 as well as after launch in the year 2024 has evolved. However, the developers are still stymied because they can’t access certain features that the hardware is capable of. Mike had previously stated that an early prototype built by one of these site friends was an ersatz system with real mechanical components, manually-operated valves, gauges, but no fluid, electricity, or lubrication flowing through the system. Apple Vision Pro hardware is not capable of handling a hybrid system, even with visionOS 2.0. Even so, it appears that visionOS 2.0 will not be able to handle a hybrid system for another year. Trainees can’t be let loose in a warehouse equipped with a conveyor belt and expect them to operate it without any issues. Apple Vision Pro review – podcasting on a Mac with Vision Pro is possible, but only as a workaround. The fact that there is no indication that this type of compatibility will be coming soon has frustrated those Mike continues to speak to. It’s beyond irritation for some people. It’s unclear when this will change and some major projects are on their way to switching to other hardware. Apple Vision Pro’s future isn’t entirely obscure, but it may be more so than at launch because of the direction visionOS 2.0 has taken. Mike predicted that visionOS 2.0 would have improvements that would please enterprises, but also that they would come around visionOS 4.0 and later. He was right. There’s still nothing better than regular Mac, iPad or iPhone hardware right now, even after the first major OS upgrade for the hardware. This is true for business, government work, defense or trade. Apple has the money and patience to wait for a product to become a hobby. Apple’s first product, “Pro”, suggests that there will be a non-pro model at some point. It is clear that Apple wants to create something that is less bulky and more ubiquitous. This may be exactly what the enterprise needs. We’ll see. Apple Vision Pro review – an ultra-wide virtual Mac screen can only take you so far. What they don’t want, is a device that is exclusively a media consumption tool. This is what they got with visionOS 1.0 and then reinforced by visionOS 2.0. It’s much easier to get a media consumption suite for less than $3500 a seat. Mike has made some progress with his Apple Vision Pro. He said that he could live with the Roddenberry Archive Star Trek App, but still hates how the Mac monitor is connected to the device. His desk is ridiculous. His main monitor is 32-inch 4K display with 120Hz in landscape and he also has two portrait 4K displays. Oh, and when Submerged is released, he will write about it. We are not aware of any other Apple publication that has a former nuclear-trained sub-sailor as part of the team. We will have more to say about that as soon as it is revealed. Apple’s lack commitment to the platform sends a wrong message. Yes, I said that visionOS 2 was a sign that Apple’s commitment is to improve the platform. But only at the OS level. Apple seems to have little interest in supporting software and entertainment development for Apple Vision Pro. Apple Vision Pro review – a content problem that continuesOld content designed for headsets of lower resolutions has found its way onto the headset via third-party applications. WebXR allows users to run VR applications directly on the web. Safari can launch limited games, experiences, and yes, VR Porn. Apple Vision Pro is making baby steps towards wider support. Apple doesn’t seem to be interested in evangelizing their own platform as it has done in the past. Apple Vision Pro does not have many first-party apps, but they are available on iPad. Initial speculation suggested Apple would quickly rectify this during visionOS 1 (or at least during WWDC). Apple didn’t introduce any new apps, but instead announced Apple Intelligence exclusively for iPhones and M-series phones. Apple Vision Pro review: Still waiting on native appsSure Apple has confirmed that Apple Intelligence will be available on Apple Vision Pro soon, but it seems odd to leave such an expensive platform out. The omission has left early adopters of the expensive headset feeling disappointed. It creates another barrier for potential buyers. If I found Apple’s Writing Tools sufficient to replace Grammarly, then I would not be allowed to run the software on Apple Vision Pro. While I could write a review like this on the headset, I would have to go back to my iPad for the AI proofread feature. Not ideal. All apps in compatibility mode up to August 2024. Books
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There’s no Contacts app. There’s no Find My feature in Messages. And there is zero support for apps such as Weather, Health or Classical. Apple doesn’t seem to be able to set an example for developers who are still hesitant about the platform. Apple could use some of its cash to encourage some of the biggest holdouts to support Apple Vision Pro. It’s easy to spend other people’s money in this way, but Microsoft withholding Minecraft, and Meta withholding Beat Saber, isn’t good for the product. Why should developers bother if Apple can’t build native apps, or port all its iPad apps? Apple is sending a message that seems to be similar today. Apple Vision Pro review – a content shortage Immersive video is amazing and each new episode is a perfect demonstration of the platform. After six months we have received maybe 30 minutes worth of new content. Apple has promised more content, so there’s some comfort. Apple Vision Pro review – immersive video could help drive sales, if there was more to see. The most impressive entertainment piece came in the form “What If?” Disney Marvel. It is a passively-interactive experience that guides the user through the events in the Multiverse involving infinity stones. It takes an hour to finish, which is longer than all the immersive videos put together. Apple’s new environments are great, but with the Home View grid now filled, I wonder if a new one is planned. Paramount+ created a “Spongebob” environment that was quite whimsical, with interactive bubbles, and a jellyfish-themed game. However, unless you are planning to watch something on the service, it is not useful. I hope Apple is listening to the overwhelming feedback they have received about environments in recent months. It’s fine to sit on Avenger’s Tower or in a ‘Game of Thrones’ space in New York, but it’s silly if you can only use one app. Apple Vision Pro review – fancy technology is useless if it’s not used. It seems that very little is being created in tandem. Apple hasn’t announced any collaborations involving existing Apple TV content. Five years after Apple TV+ launched, we’re finally getting screensavers inspired by the service in tvOS 18. We hope Apple does not wait another five to create a “Ted Lasso soccer pitch” or “Foundation planet”. I am only being critical in this area because the immersive videos, environments, and gaming are some of the most compelling features of Apple Vision Pro. They are the main reason I recommend the product to anyone today. Apple Vision Pro review – visit Bikini bottom, but only if Paramount is on.+It’s a failure of Apple not to have a consistent schedule, story or hype cycle for this portion of the platform. We should hear about the special Time Capsule app “For All Mankind”, which will prepare us for the next season, or an environment that includes Snoopy’s doghouse. Apple Vision Pro is missing other aspects of Apple business. Where are the Apple Park Immersive Tour, the Apple Music Immersive Concert Series, or the Oprah Immersive Video Podcast Series? Apple is great at synergy, when it wants to be, but it missed the mark with Apple Vision Pro. Apple Vision Pro review – an improving gaming story. I’ve already mentioned games a couple of times, but I would like to clarify a few points. Apple Vision Pro has not stagnated its gaming story in the same manner as the entertainment story. Apple Vision Pro review – VR games are actually quite good. There are many iPad compatible games which can be played using controllers. There is something for gamers. I can imagine a very interesting future for devices like Apple Vision Pro. Users could, for example, choose an immersive gaming environment based on a bedroom from the ’90s with a giant CRT to play classic games. Apple Vision Pro’s most important gaming feature is the availability and variety of VR and immersive games. Although they are few and far between, the titles are coming out faster than Apple’s original software for the headset. Some titles, such as Cityscapes and Cut the Rope are being developed in a new way. These titles remind of Apple’s first attempts at AR games, which insert 3D views in the real world via the iPhone display. Apple Vision Pro review – not quite a video game, but “What If?” It was a compelling and fun experience. I enjoyed using gestures to drive around in Warped Kart Racing, and to throw weapons. It’s silly, and you get tired, but the gesture control is novel. Synth Riders, Beat Punch and other rhythm-based titles can be played in the absence of Beat Saber. The lack of haptic input makes these games feel flat, even though Beat Punch’s punching workout can be fun. Thrasher is a game from the makers Thumper that lets you use your finger to guide an evil snake-like creature around obstacles. It is fluid and makes great use of Apple Vision Pro tracking technology. Office Simulator and other classic VR games are starting to appear. Some people have complained that it’s harder to play without a controler, but I don’t find it to be a problem. Apple Vision Pro review: “Job Simulator” is still a silly blastThat being said, I hope Apple allows the use of third party VR controllers someday. Haptic feedback is a huge difference in some games. I expect that some games will not work without it. Apple Vision Pro gaming has a long way to go, but I’m pleased with the progress that we’ve made so far, even if it is slow. Let’s hope Apple gets some smart partnerships in future — ahem Minecraft VR or No Man’s Sky please. Someone should call Tod and tell him that Skyrim doesn’t run on all platforms. I’m sure that he would be surprised. Apple Vision Pro review – still amazing hardware This review check in has largely focused on the Apple Vision Pro Software. It’s because my opinion hasn’t changed in the past six months. Apple Vision Pro review – amazing hardware you shouldn’t wear out in publicApple Vision Pro still feels futuristic each time I pick it. I can wear it for long periods of time without any issues, and sometimes even spend my workdays completely immersed. The software is integrated into the environment, and the gestures can make you feel as if you are actually touching the software. The vertical stack represents something that only Apple can create. If you need a reminder, the Apple Vision Pro headset is made of aluminum and tempered glass. The device is made up of interchangeable cushions and band that allow it to weigh between 21.2 and 22.9 ounces. The external battery pack is 12.45 ounces in weight and lasts for about 2 hours. Apple Vision Pro review – AudioPods fine, but AirPods better yetAn array cameras and sensors feed information to the R1 processor which generates a 3D image of the user’s environment on two near-4K screens per eye. The M2 processor, with its 8-core processor, 10-core GPU and 16GB RAM, can run native visionOS apps and the iPad without any issues. Apple Vision Pro hardware is years ahead of software and operating systems. Let’s hope this doesn’t continue to be the case, as it was with iPad. It was difficult to write about Apple Vision Pro because I didn’t think much had changed in the last six months. The main differences are visionOS 2 and Spatial Personas, but the device’s overall use hasn’t changed. Apple Vision Pro review – time for Apple to set an exampleIt’s still hard to recommend anyone buying Apple Vision Pro, unless they are willing to spend extra money and have curiosity. There aren’t many things that you can do today with the product. It’s easier to use other platforms, like viewing media or writing text. Apple Vision Pro’s unique features aren’t fully developed. You can watch every piece of unique content in immersive video within an hour and the list of exclusives games is almost non-existent. Apple Vision Pro is still a great first product in a new category. Apple’s commitment is what will make or break the category. Apple Vision Pro’s global launch and the first holiday season could bring renewed interest to consumers. Apple has the chance to convince those without the headset to make an investment, but it does not seem to be interested. Apple Vision Pro Review — Pros Futuristic hardware that only Apple could create
visionOS 2 fixes many of the problems that were initially associated with the platform
New APIs help developers create new apps and experiences
Gaming isn’t a wasteland. Creators are taking full advantage of the unique hardware.
WebXR, emulators and other options such as streaming allow for more experiences
Apple Vision Pro review – cons Apple’s lack new native apps sends a wrong message
The glacial rollout isn’t possible
Apple Intelligence is not available at launch. This feels like a missed opportunity
Developers have little interest in porting games and apps
Rating: 3.5 out 5 For those keeping track at home, yes we have downgraded Apple Vision Pro from a 4 to a 3. The hardware is unchanged, but the software is stagnant. I’m glad the gaming story hasn’t slowed down, but the lack native apps isn’t ideal. Apple is working to address many of my complaints, but timing and how they’re addressed are critical. Many people find six months too long. These scores aren’t fixed. If Apple shows renewed interest in promoting Apple Vision Pro, and gets developers to care about it, the score may shoot up at a later time. How to order Apple Vision Pro Ordering Apple Vision Pro works much like buying any other Apple products, except that it’s only sold by Apple online and in Apple Stores. To ensure a smooth ordering process, customers will need a few things to hand, such as their prescription. Apple Vision Pro starts at 3,499 dollars with 256GB storage. Upgrade to 512GB storage for $200 extra at each tier. The optical inserts cost $99 for readers, and $149 for prescriptions.