Apple Vision Pro Review: My Hands-On Experience
As an indie iOS developer, I recently had an unexpected but fascinating encounter with Apple Vision Pro during my trip to Edinburgh. While I initially planned to check out the new M4 Macs at the Apple Store on Princes Street, fate had different plans for me.
Apple Vision Pro Demo Experience
When I discovered that the store offered exclusive demos of the Vision Pro, I immediately booked a slot. I was paired with Vicky, an incredibly knowledgeable Apple Genius who made the entire experience both informative and enjoyable. Before diving in, she took care to accommodate my prescription glasses with a custom lens apparatus – a thoughtful touch that showed Apple’s attention to detail.
Getting Started: The Controls
The control system genuinely surprised me. Using your eyes as a pointer and fingers for interactions feels remarkably natural. What really caught me off guard was the precision of finger gesture detection without any additional sensors on my wrists or hands. After a quick calibration process to sync with my eye movements, I was ready to explore.
Beyond Traditional VR
While the device includes standard VR experiences like virtual environments, I was more interested in exploring what sets Vision Pro apart from conventional VR headsets. Here’s what stood out to me:
Key Advantages of Apple Vision Pro
Seamless Apple Integration
- Natural extension of the Apple ecosystem
- Familiar app interface reducing the learning curve
- Easy development path for existing iOS/iPad developers
- Excellent device connectivity for screen mirroring
Enhanced Real-World Integration
- Doesn’t completely isolate you from your surroundings
- Transparent display when someone approaches
- Visible hand gestures during use
- Well-balanced mix of virtual and real environments
Professional Applications
Unlike many VR headsets that feel like experimental technology, Vision Pro presents itself as a mature platform ready for serious applications, particularly in fields like medicine.
Notable Challenges of Apple Vision Pro
Battery Limitations
The external battery pack that needs to be carried in your pocket might be inconvenient for some users.
Physical Comfort
I experienced some discomfort in the form of a mild headache during the demo, though this might improve with regular use.
Looking Ahead: Developer Opportunities
As someone deeply involved in medical software development, I see immense potential in Vision Pro. The spatial computing capabilities, combined with the mature development environment, open up exciting possibilities for medical education and radiology applications.
Final Thoughts
While the price point requires careful consideration (and perhaps some negotiation with my wife), I believe Vision Pro represents a significant step forward in spatial computing. As GPUs become more prevalent and powerful, this technology will likely become increasingly relevant across various industries.
For developers and medical professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve, Vision Pro offers a compelling platform for innovation. While it’s not without its challenges, the potential benefits, particularly in specialized fields like medical education, make it a serious contender for professional applications.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
