Apple's Vision Pro mixed-reality headset faces comfort challenges, company promises improvements

In June, Apple unveiled its much-anticipated mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro, and it has certainly created quite a buzz. This sleek and stylish device is packed with features that promise to revolutionise the way we experience reality.

However, there's a significant hurdle – the hefty price tag of $3,500, which may put it out of reach for many eager customers. But price isn't the only concern.

According to a recent report by Mark Gurman, a well-known Apple leaker, testing of the Vision Pro has revealed a potential issue with neck strain due to its size and weight.

While the specific weight has not been officially disclosed, various sources suggest it weighs around 1 pound (453.6 grams).

Power On: Apple and Meta are on the cusp of launching new mixed-reality headsets, but work is already well underway on next-generation models. Here are the details: https://t.co/civI6Ffjbl

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 8, 2023

Comfort concerns prompt

Apple to enhance Vision Pro To address these comfort concerns, Apple's engineers are already hard at work on the next version of the Vision Pro. Their primary goal is to make it lighter and smaller, ensuring a more comfortable experience during extended use.

Gurman reports that Apple may even introduce an over-the-head strap for the first Vision Pro to alleviate some of these comfort issues.

Glass wearers not forgotten

Another challenge Apple faces is accommodating users who wear glasses. The current headset lacks sufficient space for spectacles. To address this, Apple has partnered with Zeiss to create prescription lenses that can magnetically attach to the Vision Pro's displays.

However, creating various lens combinations is a complex task. Apple is exploring the idea of shipping custom-built Vision Pros with preinstalled prescription lenses, though this approach has its drawbacks, such as limiting device resale and ignoring potential changes in users' eyesight over time.

A potential alternative solution being considered is the development of augmented reality spectacles that can overlay information on the lenses. This shift towards augmented reality, as opposed to virtual reality, could offer a more comfortable and feature-rich experience.

While Apple paused its work on AR spectacles last year, Gurman believes the company will revisit this project once the technology matures. Apple's Vision Pro headset has generated significant excitement, but its weight and size may pose comfort challenges for users.

Apple is actively working to address these issues and is also exploring solutions for glasses wearers. The future may bring us not only a lighter and more comfortable Vision Pro but also the possibility of augmented reality spectacles from Apple. Stay tuned for more developments in the world of Apple's mixed-reality devices.