According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s Vision Pro headset has been delayed from its original January launch to March 2024.
The delay is attributed to the headset’s complex design and production challenges. Despite the setback, the additional time will allow the tech giant to refine its distribution plans and conduct thorough device testing.
Apple delays Vision Pro headset due to design challenges
The Vision Pro headset’s ambitious design has led to manufacturing difficulties and “drastic cuts” in production forecasts. Apple is now expected to produce fewer than 400,000 units in 2024, with the initial launch limited to the United States. The headset is expected to reach additional markets, including Canada and the UK, towards the end of next year.
To ensure a smooth customer experience, select Apple retail employees in the United States have undergone specialized training at Apple’s Cupertino headquarters. These trained employees will then train their peers at Apple stores. Flagship stores will feature dedicated Vision Pro hands-on areas, while other stores will have one or two units for customers to experience.
Powered by the visionOS operating system, the Vision Pro represents the future of spatial computing. Its three-dimensional interface allows apps to transcend traditional display boundaries. The headset is equipped with the standard M2 chip and a new R1 chip for video streaming. Its micro-OLED technology packs an impressive 23 million pixels into two displays. Notably, the Vision Pro features a unique “EyeSight” function, utilizing a front-facing display to reveal the user’s eyes to others in the room.
Originally slated for a January launch, the Vision Pro will now likely make its debut in March, aligning with Apple’s typical spring event. The headset’s pricing, set at $3,499, suggests a focus on enterprise buyers rather than the general consumer market. The “Pro” designation hints at the possibility of a more affordable version in the future.
Apple’s entry into the mixed-reality headset market places it in direct competition with brands like Meta Quest. Despite the delay, the Vision Pro’s enhanced capabilities and premium pricing differentiate it from mainstream mixed-reality headsets. Apple’s strategic approach to distribution, with a gradual expansion to different regions, aims to ensure a smooth rollout and an impressive user experience.
(via Bloomberg)
