Apple Vision Pro VR — Price vs Quality for American Consumers

Fortune Vieyra
10 min readJun 8, 2023

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Is It Worth Buying To Watch Netflix or will a cheap Home Projector Do?

Not this display, the ones for your eyes. Image: Vjeran Pavic / The Verge

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How Is This Ground Breaking Technology?

Prepare to be astounded by the groundbreaking masterpiece of technological innovation from Apple: the awe-inspiring Vision Pro mixed reality headset. Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled visual splendor as Apple unveils its mind-boggling achievement — a display boasting an extraordinary refresh rate of 90Hz. The unveiling took place during a prestigious online WWDC session, where Apple’s visionary developers divulged the inner workings of this remarkable headset, especially its flawless handling of both 2D and stereoscopic 3D videos.

In the realm of cutting-edge technology, it is not uncommon to encounter screens with refresh rates ranging from 90 to 120Hz, delivering breathtakingly responsive and fluid visuals that leave slower displays in the dust. While Apple has traditionally favored 60Hz displays across its product lineup, with the exception of select “pro” devices like the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro, which boast 120Hz ProMotion displays, the Vision Pro boldly forges a new path. With its display positioned mere inches from your eager eyes, the sheer velocity of its 90Hz refresh rate will revolutionize your viewing experience, transporting you to realms of unrivaled enchantment.

Apple Vision Pro VR https://www.apple.com/apple-vision-pro/

But that’s not all — the Vision Pro’s displays possess the astonishing ability to seamlessly transition to a remarkable 96Hz. This magical transformation is specifically designed to cater to the playback of videos captured at the cinematic 24 frames per second, akin to the majority of movies. Furthermore, the Vision Pro graciously embraces both standard and high dynamic range (HDR) content, ensuring your visual feast is replete with vivid hues and striking contrast.

While the Apple Vision Pro VR glasses are generating excitement, it’s important to note that the technology is not entirely groundbreaking, as Microsoft has already ventured into this realm with its own product. Microsoft’s foray into virtual reality with devices like the HoloLens has showcased their commitment to immersive experiences. However, Apple’s Vision Pro differentiates itself from competitors like Facebook’s Meta Quest VR and Sony’s PlayStation VR 2 in several ways.

Each company brings its unique approach to the table, offering distinct features and capabilities. The Vision Pro focuses on delivering a high refresh rate of 90Hz, providing smooth visuals that enhance the user experience. Additionally, Apple’s integration of HDR support and its renowned display technology contribute to an exceptional level of visual fidelity. By emphasizing these aspects, Apple aims to carve its own path in the VR market and cater to users seeking a premium and refined virtual reality experience.

Apple Vision Pro https://www.apple.com/apple-vision-pro/

Apple Vision Pro VR for Entertainment

When it comes to entertainment, streaming platforms like Netflix have revolutionized the way we consume media. Many viewers appreciate the convenience and affordability that these services offer, allowing them to enjoy a vast library of content at a relatively low cost. However, the introduction of Apple’s visionary creation, the Vision Pro mixed reality headset, raises a valid concern for consumers who prioritize their budget.

Netflix has garnered a significant user base by providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional cable subscriptions or purchasing physical media. The appeal lies in its affordable monthly subscription model, which allows subscribers to access a wide range of movies, TV shows, and documentaries without breaking the bank. This has undoubtedly resonated with a substantial portion of viewers who prioritize financial prudence.

In stark contrast, the price of the new Apple Vision Pro poses a potential challenge for consumers who have grown accustomed to the frugality of streaming services. Apple has a reputation for crafting high-quality, premium devices that often come with a higher price tag compared to their competitors. While the Vision Pro promises an unparalleled immersive experience and groundbreaking technology, the cost associated with owning this remarkable headset may be prohibitive for many.

It’s important to note that technological advancements and cutting-edge innovations often come with a premium price point. The Vision Pro represents a pinnacle of technological achievement, featuring state-of-the-art displays with exceptional refresh rates and supporting 4K resolution. These features, combined with Apple’s meticulous attention to detail and renowned craftsmanship, contribute to the elevated price of the device.

As consumers weigh their options, it is understandable that the affordability factor plays a crucial role in decision-making. The price of the Vision Pro may be a determining factor for those who have become accustomed to the cost-effectiveness of streaming services like Netflix. However, it’s worth considering that the Vision Pro offers a level of immersion and visual fidelity that far surpasses traditional viewing experiences, blurring the boundaries between reality and virtual worlds.

While the price of the Vision Pro may present a hurdle for some consumers, it’s important to remember that Apple aims to cater to a specific audience seeking the pinnacle of technological excellence. As with any premium product, it’s a matter of personal preference and individual financial circumstances. As technology evolves, it is not uncommon for groundbreaking innovations to initially come with a higher price point, gradually becoming more accessible over time.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in the Apple Vision Pro will depend on an individual’s priorities, budget, and their passion for cutting-edge technology. As consumers, we have the power to evaluate the value proposition and make informed choices that align with our preferences and financial realities.

Other (Appl)ications outside of Movies, Video Calls and Browsing

The question most people are asking about VR in general is if they can actually use it in a meaningful way that’s different from a laptop or projector? Below are the top 25 other ways it’s likely to be used for.

  1. Gaming: Enjoy immersive gaming experiences designed specifically for VR, offering interactive gameplay and realistic environments.
  2. Virtual Tours: Explore famous landmarks, museums, and historical sites from around the world in stunning virtual reality.
  3. Education: Engage in interactive educational experiences, such as virtual science experiments, historical reenactments, or language learning simulations.
  4. Fitness and Health: Participate in virtual workout classes, guided meditation sessions, or immersive fitness games to stay active and promote overall well-being.
  5. Design and Architecture: Utilize VR to create and visualize architectural designs, interior layouts, or 3D models with a more immersive and intuitive approach.
  6. Art and Creativity: Unleash your creativity through virtual art creation, 3D sculpting, or painting in a three-dimensional space.
  7. Music and Concerts: Attend virtual concerts and live performances, where you can enjoy a front-row experience and even interact with the virtual environment.
  8. Social VR: Connect with friends, family, or other VR users in virtual spaces to socialize, play games together, or attend virtual events.
  9. Simulation Training: Simulate real-world scenarios for professional training, such as flight simulation, medical procedures, or industrial equipment operation.
  10. Travel Planning: Use VR to research and plan your next vacation, exploring destinations, accommodations, and activities in a more immersive manner.
  11. Architectural Visualization: Walk through virtual architectural models to experience proposed buildings or spaces before they are constructed.
  12. Engineering and Prototyping: Create and test prototypes in a virtual environment, allowing for easier collaboration and faster iterations.
  13. Virtual Conferences and Events: Attend virtual conferences, trade shows, or live events, enabling networking opportunities and engaging presentations.
  14. Virtual Museums and Galleries: Experience curated virtual exhibitions of art, history, or cultural artifacts, offering unique insights and interactions.
  15. Therapy and Rehabilitation: Utilize VR for therapy purposes, such as exposure therapy, pain management, or motor skill rehabilitation.
  16. Product Visualization: Visualize and customize products in a virtual environment before making purchasing decisions, such as home furniture or automotive options.
  17. Sports Training: Engage in virtual sports training simulations to improve skills, analyze techniques, or strategize gameplay scenarios.
  18. Virtual Collaboration: Collaborate with remote team members in a shared virtual space, fostering productivity and creativity.
  19. Virtual Trade Skill Training: Learn vocational skills, like plumbing or electrical work, through interactive VR simulations that provide hands-on practice.
  20. Historical Reenactments: Step into historically accurate environments to witness pivotal moments and learn about significant events.
  21. Psychological Therapy: Utilize VR to create controlled environments for exposure therapy, phobia treatment, or managing anxiety and stress.
  22. Astronomical Exploration: Journey through space, exploring celestial bodies and phenomena in an immersive and educational VR experience.
  23. Virtual Experiences: Engage in unique virtual experiences like skydiving, bungee jumping, or exploring fictional fantasy worlds.
  24. Language Learning: Immerse yourself in virtual language environments, practicing conversations and cultural interactions in a realistic setting.
  25. Storytelling and Narrative Experiences: Dive into immersive story-driven adventures, where you become a part of captivating narratives, solving puzzles, and making choices.

This has the potential of revolutionizing experiences in all kinds of industries if everyone jumps onboard. So what would a completely VR world look like? Well here are 111 other things people are likely to do with the Apple Vision Pro VR and other similar products.

  1. AI-generated virtual avatars for personalized experiences
  2. Augmented Reality (AR) in live performances
  3. Augmented reality navigation and way finding
  4. Dynamic and personalized advertising in VR/AR
  5. Extended Reality (XR) for remote collaboration
  6. Immersive Mixed Reality eSports experiences
  7. Mixed reality architectural visualization
  8. Mixed reality interactive art installations
  9. Mixed reality interactive learning modules
  10. Mixed reality interactive museum exhibits
  11. Mixed reality interactive puzzle solving
  12. Mixed reality interactive storytelling
  13. Mixed reality product demonstrations
  14. Mixed reality remote collaboration
  15. Mixed reality remote music concerts
  16. Mixed reality remote social gatherings
  17. Mixed reality remote team building activities
  18. Mixed reality remote technical support
  19. Mixed reality tabletop gaming
  20. Mixed reality virtual animal behavior studies
  21. Mixed reality virtual archaeological digs
  22. Mixed reality virtual architectural competitions
  23. Mixed reality virtual art therapy sessions
  24. Mixed reality virtual automotive design
  25. Mixed reality virtual automotive repair tutorials
  26. Mixed reality virtual chemistry experiments
  27. Mixed reality virtual city planning simulations
  28. Mixed reality virtual city tours
  29. Mixed reality virtual construction planning
  30. Mixed reality virtual cooking competitions
  31. Mixed reality virtual dance performances
  32. Mixed reality virtual escape room design
  33. Mixed reality virtual escape rooms
  34. Mixed reality virtual fashion design workshops
  35. Mixed reality virtual fashion styling
  36. Mixed reality virtual fitness challenges
  37. Mixed reality virtual historical tours
  38. Mixed reality virtual home inspection
  39. Mixed reality virtual interior decorating
  40. Mixed reality virtual job training
  41. Mixed reality virtual language exchanges
  42. Mixed reality virtual language interpretation
  43. Mixed reality virtual medical simulations
  44. Mixed reality virtual meditation retreats
  45. Mixed reality virtual public speaking practice
  46. Mixed reality virtual real estate tours
  47. Mixed reality virtual roller derby matches
  48. Mixed reality virtual science experiments
  49. Mixed reality virtual shopping experiences
  50. Mixed reality virtual space colonization simulations
  51. Mixed reality virtual space exploration
  52. Mixed reality virtual team sports training
  53. Mixed reality virtual theme park rides
  54. Mixed reality virtual trade shows
  55. Mixed reality virtual wildlife conservation
  56. Mixed reality virtual wildlife observation
  57. Virtual art exhibitions
  58. Virtual car customization
  59. Virtual car test drives
  60. Virtual cooking lessons
  61. Virtual escape rooms
  62. Virtual fashion shows
  63. Virtual fitness classes
  64. Virtual flight simulations
  65. Virtual gardening and landscaping
  66. Virtual historical reenactments
  67. Virtual home remodeling
  68. Virtual home theater experience
  69. Virtual influencers and digital celebrities
  70. Virtual interior design consultations
  71. Virtual job interviews
  72. Virtual language immersion
  73. Virtual mindfulness meditation
  74. Virtual museum curator experiences
  75. Virtual music production
  76. Virtual nature exploration
  77. Virtual pet care simulations
  78. Virtual product reviews
  79. Virtual reality (VR) concerts and music festivals
  80. Virtual reality arcades and entertainment centers
  81. Virtual reality archaeological reconstructions
  82. Virtual reality architectural walkthroughs
  83. Virtual reality art creation
  84. Virtual reality cinematic experiences
  85. Virtual reality concerts
  86. Virtual reality data visualization
  87. Virtual reality disaster response training
  88. Virtual reality historical reenactments
  89. Virtual reality immersive theater
  90. Virtual reality journalism
  91. Virtual reality marketing campaigns
  92. Virtual reality medical simulations
  93. Virtual reality remote assistance for customer support
  94. Virtual reality remote collaboration in research and development
  95. Virtual reality remote education
  96. Virtual reality remote workspaces
  97. Virtual reality simulation for emergency response scenarios
  98. Virtual reality simulation for extreme sports training
  99. Virtual reality simulation for space exploration
  100. Virtual reality simulations for military training
  101. Virtual reality social networking
  102. Virtual reality sports broadcasting
  103. Virtual reality storytelling
  104. Virtual reality therapy
  105. Virtual reality therapy for mental health
  106. Virtual reality training for professional sports
  107. Virtual reality travel experiences
  108. Virtual reality-based education and learning platforms
  109. Virtual roller coaster rides
  110. Virtual sports spectating
  111. Virtual travel blogging

Event though the list of applications for AR/VR technology represent a glimpse into a profound and inspiring future, who knows how people will use it. We are entering a world where we can immerse ourselves in virtual concerts, stories, and social networks. It envisions a future where therapy, education, and work can be transformed through virtual environments.

It promises captivating cinematic experiences, innovative data visualization, and groundbreaking advancements in fields like architecture, medicine, and travel. AR/VR holds the potential to revolutionize entertainment, communication, and visualization, offering endless possibilities and igniting hope for a future where we can transcend boundaries and unlock new dimensions of human experience.

Let’s stay tuned.

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Speaking of AI, here are the top authors I like that write some pretty entertaining and thought provoking articles about AI.

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  4. Douglas Rushkoff
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