Highlights

• Apple Vision Pro AR/VR headset faces issues with its ‘Passthrough’ feature.
• Notable motion blur and distortion during quick movements.
• Challenges in low-light performance and color accuracy.
• Vision Pro package includes essential accessories and optional items for comfort.

The Apple Vision Pro reviews are trickling down slowly as the Tuesday embargo has lifted.

Not many have posted a full review of Apple’s next big leap in technology, but among those who have are The Verge.

The Vision Pro, for those living under a rock, is Apple’s AR/VR headset for what the company calls ‘Spatial Computing’.

Most reviews of the device have been generally favourable and The Verge’s review is no different.

Apple’s Vision of AR

However, Nilay Patel, Editor-in-chief of the tech publication, and also the one reviewing the Vision Pro, has identified a few problems with the headset’s passthrough feature.

Again for those not in the know, Passthrough is when a VR headset relays outside information directly to your eyes via a set of cameras and displays.

This technology is nothing new, with Meta integrating the feature on its Quest 3 VR headset.

The Vision Pro is Apple’s ambitious attempt to blend the digital and physical worlds.

Unlike its speculated future product, the Glasses, which aims to offer true augmented reality by overlaying digital information onto the real world, the Vision Pro is a virtual reality headset that seeks to bring the outside world to the wearer, like the Quest 3.

While the concept is groundbreaking, as mentioned above Nilay Patel points out several inherent limitations in the headset’s passthrough feature.

Here are 9 things that he said can be improved upon:

• Motion Blur: Quick head movements result in a noticeable blur, a problem that becomes more pronounced in low-light conditions.
• Distortion: Straight lines can appear warped, and there’s noticeable flickering in some displays, similar to what one might see in a microwave clock.
• Low-light Blurriness: The passthrough’s clarity diminishes in dim lighting due to noise reduction necessitated by high ISO levels.
• Inconsistent Brightness: The headset struggles to maintain consistent brightness levels, particularly noticeable when the user is in a mixed-light environment.
• Colour Limitations: The Vision Pro can reproduce only 49 percent of the colours visible to the human eye, despite supporting 92 percent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut.
• Restricted Field of View: The field of view is narrower compared to other headsets like the Quest 3, leading to a sensation akin to looking through binoculars.
• Vignetting: There is noticeable darkening around the edges of the viewable area.
• Colour Fringing: Users may observe green and pink fringing at the edges, especially in brightly lit settings.
• Lens Reflections: High-contrast scenes can cause distracting reflections on the lenses.

Apple Vision Pro: What’s in the Box?

Apart from The Verge’s review, popular tech YouTuber MKBHD posted his unboxing video of the Vision Pro and there was a fair bit to unpack.

Here is what you will get with the Vision Pro headset along with some optional accessories.

• The primary component, of course, is the Apple Vision Pro headset itself, which arrives with a stretchy cover designed to safeguard the head-mounted display. 
• For users who wear glasses, Apple offers an optional solution in the form of optical inserts. These lenses can be conveniently attached magnetically to the Vision Pro, ensuring a clearer view.
• An optional Vision Pro travel case is also available. This soft white case is tailored for easy and secure transportation of the headset. 
• Along with these, the package includes two informational pamphlets. These booklets provide essential guidance on using and maintaining the Apple Vision Pro.
• Maintenance is further aided by the inclusion of a microfiber cloth, which is crucial for keeping the headset’s glass clean and smudge-free. 
• To enhance user comfort and prevent distractions, the package contains two light seals. These magnetic attachments are designed to block any intrusive light.
• Addressing comfort, especially given the feedback regarding the headset’s weight, Apple has included a dual-loop band. This accessory is reminiscent of the Elite Strap found on the Meta Quest 3 and aims to improve the headset’s comfort during extended use.
• A vital component of the package is the battery pack, with a capacity of 3,166 mAh. This pack needs to be attached to the Vision Pro and is meant to be carried in a pocket, despite its somewhat awkward appearance.
• Lastly, for powering the battery pack, there is a USB-C to USB-C braided cable and a 30W charging brick, as noted by Brownlee. 

FAQs

What is the main issue identified in the Apple Vision Pro headset?

The primary concern with the Apple Vision Pro revolves around its passthrough feature, where users have reported problems such as motion blur and distortion, particularly under specific conditions like low light.

How does the Vision Pro’s passthrough feature perform compared to other headsets?

While the passthrough feature is designed to blend the digital and physical worlds, it currently experiences issues with motion blur, distortion, and color accuracy, falling short of the seamless experience seen in devices like the Meta Quest 3.

What are some key accessories included with the Apple Vision Pro?

The Vision Pro comes with a protective cover, optional optical inserts for glasses wearers, a travel case, light seals, a microfiber cloth, and a dual-loop band for added comfort.

Is there a solution available for the Vision Pro’s display issues?

As of now, there hasn’t been an official fix from Apple for the passthrough feature issues. However, given the company’s track record, a software update could potentially address these concerns.

What are ZEISS Optical Inserts in the Apple Vision Pro?

ZEISS Optical Inserts are specialized corrective lenses designed for Apple’s Vision Pro headset. They are tailored to individual visual needs, including prescription lenses and reading glasses.

How do you pair ZEISS Optical Inserts with the Apple Vision Pro?

To pair the ZEISS Optical Inserts, users need to attach them magnetically to the Vision Pro, then follow a specific process that includes scanning a unique code provided with the lenses.

Is recalibration necessary after pairing new lenses with Vision Pro?

Yes, after attaching new ZEISS Optical Inserts to the Vision Pro, users are required to recalibrate the eye-tracking feature to ensure optimal functionality.

Can the Vision Pro recognize different pairs of ZEISS Optical Inserts?

The Vision Pro headset is equipped to intelligently identify different ZEISS Optical Inserts being used, automatically adjusting settings for the best visual experience.

When are Apple Vision Pro pre-orders expected to arrive?

Customers who pre-ordered the Apple Vision Pro can expect their devices to start arriving as shipments have begun, with the official release set for February 2.

How can I track my Apple Vision Pro shipment?

To track your Vision Pro order, enroll in UPS My Choice for detailed package tracking or use the UPS website’s “Track by Reference Number” feature.

What special feature does the ZEISS partnership add to the Apple Vision Pro?

The collaboration with ZEISS offers Vision Pro users specialized optical inserts, enhancing visual experience with a unique pairing process for authenticity and precision.

Are the sales figures for the Apple Vision Pro available?

While official numbers aren’t released, it’s estimated that between 160,000 to 180,000 units of the Vision Pro were sold during the initial pre-order weekend.

Vision Pro Launch: Apple Has Advice For Those With Medical Conditions. Details?

The Vision Pro is for all apple loves , including the ones who wear glasses but those with a medical condition, Apple has advice for them.

“If you have a pre-existing medical condition, consult with a medical provider before using Apple Vision Pro.

Using this device with certain medical conditions might aggravate symptoms or increase the risk of injury or discomfort,” Apple said in an advisory published last week.

Apple has also highlighted that if a potential customer is experiencing symptoms related to a medical condition, consult with a medical provider before using Apple Vision Pro.

“If you are pregnant, exercise additional caution when using Apple Vision Pro, as pregnancy may increase the risk of nausea or loss of balance,” the company said.

“Apple Vision Pro and its battery contain magnets or components that emit radio waves, which could affect the operation of nearby electronics, including cardiac pacemakers, hearing aids, and defibrillators,” Apple added.

What are the list of conditions that apple has advised for ?

List of conditions that might aggravate symptoms or increase the risk of injury or discomfort include:

Migraines or chronic headaches
Dizziness or vertigo
Eye or vision conditions, such as binocular vision conditions
Psychological conditions
Inner ear conditions
History of dry eyes, itchiness, or swelling of the eyelids
Skin allergies or sensitivities
Seizures
Balance or gait conditions

What are the kind of users who are problem free during apple Vision pro launch ?

Customers who wear prescription glasses may not have a problem but they will need a prescription for Zeiss-made optical inserts.

A reporter for The Times of India Tech-Gadgets Now was among the first ones to have tried the Vision Pro when it was launched. Apple quickly took the power of the glasses and customised them quickly to suit the wearer.

There is an option to include optical inserts for individuals who wear glasses. These optical inserts will enable users to wear the headset without their glasses. However, these inserts will be sold separately.

When to stop using Apple Vision Pro ?

Stop using Apple Vision Pro and consult with your medical provider:

If you experience symptoms related to a medical condition.

If your medical provider confirms that it’s safe for you to use Apple Vision Pro, but you experience severe or persistent physical discomfort, motion sickness, visual discomfort, skin irritation, or psychological symptoms.

If you notice swelling, itchiness, skin irritation, or other skin reactions while using your device or after using the device, stop using it. If symptoms persist, consult with your medical provider.

Also Read: Apple Vision Pro to Use ZEISS Customisable Optical Inserts: A Guide to the Pairing Process

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