Apple’s Vision Pro Headset Could Launch in February

As we just learned that Microsoft is pulling the plug on its Windows Mixed Reality Platform, Apple is reportedly getting ready to launch its Vision Pro mixed reality headset very soon. Citing sources familiar with Apple’s plans, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman is reporting that production of the headset is now accelerating ahead of its US launch, which is now expected in February.

“Production of the new headset is running at full speed at facilities in China and has been for several weeks, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private. The goal is for customer-bound units to be ready by the end of January, with the retail debut planned for the following month,” Gurman’s sources said.

Yesterday, Apple also sent an email to developers to invite them to “get ready” for the launch of the headset. If the Apple Vision Pro will be able to run hundreds of thousands of iPad and iPhone apps at launch, developers already have the tool to optimize their existing apps for the new visionOS. That includes adding 3D content optimized for eyes and hand input and adopting the standard visionOS system appearance.

The Vision Pro will be Apple’s first big product launch since the Apple Watch in 2015. The latter needed a couple of years to become the most popular smartwatch on the market, with a 22% market share in Q3 2023 according to Counterpoint Research. However, the Vision Pro is far from guaranteed to be successful with a $3,500 launch price.

Apple spent years working on the headset, which will let users arrange apps anywhere in a virtual environment and provide an immersive way to watch films and TV shows. Compared to other VR headsets on the market, the Vision Pro promises a less isolating experience with an “Eyesight” feature that lets users see the people around them while also their eyes to them. Apple also created a new navigation system that recognizes eyes and hands movements as well as voice input, so there’s definitely going to be a learning curve.

According to Gurman, Apple is planning to start training some of its retail employees to use the headset next month. Customers will be able to try the headset at Apple’s retail stores, and Apple is reportedly developing an app that will scan customers’ faces to determine the best choice of band and light seal.