In the street, at the swimming pool or at the restaurant… Since the American release of the Apple Vision Pro, several content creators have been making waves with unusual videos, in which we see them wearing the external headset while waving their hands in all directions. Videos strongly criticized, which in no way reflect reality.
Is the Apple Vision Pro the future of computers? Maybe, but certainly not that of the smartphone.
Since the headset was released on February 2, 2024 in the United States, many Internet users have appeared in the street, behind the wheel of a car or in public places with Apple’s “space computer” on their heads. Content that is widely shared and criticized, which makes some imagine a dystopian future in which everyone would have a helmet in front of their eyes. These videos contribute to product awareness, but also contribute to spreading false information.
In reality, almost all of these videos have only one goal: to create buzz. If it is possible to walk in the street with an Apple Vision Pro (we then see the world thanks to cameras which recompose reality in 3D), it is impossible to use applications on the move with visionOS 1, the system of operation of the headset at launch. Even if you wave your hands in all directions, the Apple Vision Pro is not made to be used outdoors.
A Travel Mode that no one understands
As it stands, the Apple Vision Pro can be used in two ways:
- Default mode: in a closed environment, you can pin several virtual windows to the locations of your choice. A giant screen placed on a piece of furniture will remain on this piece of furniture even if you change rooms, but will not follow you.
- Travel mode: This mode is dedicated to public transport on the move, but only works if you remain static. Here, the images change frame of reference and fixate on a location in the setting, such as the seat in front of you. But, if you move, the experience is interrupted. You must not move.
In the imagination of many (probably since several American creators have deliberately sowed doubt), Travel mode allows you to move around with a virtual window. This is false, since we pass through the window when we reach its level. You have to turn around to find the application.
It is still possible to hold the virtual screen with your hand, holding it with your thumb and index finger, but this trick makes the window transparent and trembling. In short, there is no way to move intelligently with a Vision Pro on your head today. These are just glasses that replicate reality in a lower quality than what the eyes offer. Wearing them outside serves no purpose other than style.
Since February 2, Numerama has been testing the Apple Vision Pro (our test will arrive on February 15 or 16, since we’re giving ourselves time to get it right).
After a week with the device, we can already say that Vision Pro is a kind of hybrid device between an external monitor and a TV, but not a product designed for on the go. Making you believe otherwise, by making ridiculous gestures in the street, makes no sense. Apple’s product is primarily designed for domestic or office use, even if it is technically possible to use it in a subway or in the passenger seat of a car. Future augmented reality glasses could possibly be intended for portable use, but the state of technology does not yet allow this.
Subscribe to Numerama on Google News so you don’t miss any news!