Apple Vision Pro coming soon: 5 key things to know about the ‘space computer’

Apple is gearing up for the official launch of its Vision Pro mixed reality headset in the U.S. on February 2 next month, and fans are eagerly counting down the days to get their hands on the iPhone maker’s first new product line in nearly a decade.

Since it’s a new addition to Apple’s product line, many potential customers still don’t know what it is and how it works. So, let’s dive into the five key points of Apple’s new “space computer”:

It’s a mixed reality headset, not limited to virtual reality (VR)

Contrary to popular belief, the Vision Pro is not a VR headset. Instead, it works by combining virtual reality with augmented reality (AR), blending the digital and physical worlds while remaining present and aware of your surroundings. Apple says the headset introduced us to “spatial computing,” just as the iPhone introduced us to mobile computing and the Mac did to personal computing.

Apple Vision Pro starts at $3,499 in the US

First off, the Vision Pro is currently only available in the U.S. and will be available in other regions later this year. The Vision Pro comes in three models: a 256GB base model, a 512GB model, and a high-end 1TB model. They are priced at $3,499, $3,699 and $3,899 respectively.

The box contents include: a Solo knitted strap, double loop strap, a Light Seal, Light Seal pad, front cover of the device, a polishing cloth, a 30W USB-C power adapter and cable and battery.

It’s powered by Apple’s own M2 chipset

Like the Mac and iPad, the Vision Pro is powered by Apple’s own second-generation chipset, the Apple M2, which is based on the 5-nanometer process and is the company’s second-generation chip. Apple also unveiled its new R1 chip to improve immersion and make virtual objects feel more real.

The headset is equipped with two Micro OLED screens with a combined resolution of 23 million pixels and a fast refresh rate of up to 100Hz, enabling an immersive experience.

It runs on a new operating system called VisionOS

VisionOS is the operating system of Vision Pro. This 3D operating system is tailored for the unique features of the Vision Pro product line, offering gesture-based control and a range of entertainment and productivity options. However, since it is a niche product, popular apps like Netflix will skip making dedicated apps for now.

One size does not fit all

The Apple Vision Pro headphones must fit correctly on the consumer’s head for the best experience, and this can only be achieved if the consumer purchases the headphones with the appropriate Light Seal and headband. Apple will do this by prompting you to scan your face using your iPhone or iPad with FaceID. Only then can you select your style and proceed to checkout. In offline stores, their staff will help you.