Many individuals hold their own opinions, thoughts, and concerns regarding the potential success or failure of the Apple Vision Pro. However, it is important to acknowledge that unless one possesses expertise in VR hardware, making an informed forecast on the matter becomes challenging.
I, too, had my own predictions about the Apple Vision Pro, even before the long-rumored AR/VR headset was officially announced, as it had become an open secret. My suspicion was that it would create a PR sensation, causing ripples throughout the realm of social media due to its unconventional design and high price tag.
Nevertheless, I anticipated that sales might struggle to meet the projected expectations. My intuition proved correct regarding the initial part, although it was a foreseeable outcome. Apple has the ability to generate an internet frenzy over even the most mundane product, such as a new line of socks. However, the Vision Pro’s price tag of $3,500 serves as a subtle test of loyalty.
Will Apple’s most devoted fans, those willing to forgo essential expenses like rent, show their support? Are there sufficient early-adopter enthusiasts who will eagerly acquire the Vision Pro? Will it have enough appeal to resonate with the trendsetting crowd and enable Apple to not only reach but surpass its goals?
EXPERT #1
VRDirect CEO Rolf Illenberger
According to Illenberger, it is not crucial for the initial edition of the Vision Pro to achieve significant sales success. Apple is aware that the device, along with its app and content lineup, will require several iterations before it becomes a truly compelling product for consumers. He draws a parallel to the introduction of HDTVs in 2006 or 2007, where the goal was to foster an ecosystem of app developers and content creators to invest in the new technology.
In this sense, the announcement of the Vision Pro serves as a means for Apple to stimulate and nurture this ecosystem, which was already gaining momentum with the emergence of rumors months ago. Consequently, Apple has already achieved great success with the Vision Pro, as they have transitioned a new technology from being exclusive to enthusiasts (the “nerds”) to appealing to the mainstream (“cool kids”).
In summary, it would be short-sighted to judge the success of the Vision Pro solely based on first-generation sales figures. Apple has a long-term perspective and aims to provide developers with the opportunity to create an ecosystem of visionOS apps that will benefit future iterations of the headset, which will be more affordable and accessible. Therefore, the Vision Pro is already a tremendous success in Apple’s strategic vision.
EXPERT #2
VR analyst, YouTuber Brad Lynch (he also leaked details about the Meta Quest Pro, Quest 3)
Lynch, who has been an enthusiast user in the XR (extended reality) field for seven years, expressed that the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro surpassed his expectations despite the leaks, rumors, and trademarks leading up to the announcement.
Initially drawn to XR as a gamer, Lynch gradually became more intrigued by the potential of social VR and what is now referred to as “spatial computing” within virtual reality environments. However, he found that existing hardware, including the Meta Quest Pro marketed for this purpose, fell short of meeting his needs.
Based on Apple’s hardware and platform developments, as well as the discussions at WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference), Lynch believes that Apple is excelling in areas he had previously only hoped for. He anticipates that the product will achieve “low-volume success” and lay the foundation for the future of this medium.
Drawing a parallel to the early days of purchasing a $4,000 computer in the 1980s, he expects that adoption will accelerate as the Vision Pro becomes more affordable in subsequent iterations, and competitors respond with their own offerings.
In summary, Lynch predicts that the first-generation Vision Pro will be successful in terms of generating satisfactory profits from its target audience, which includes early adopters, businesses, and developers.
However, he acknowledges that mass-market appeal may not be immediate. Nonetheless, as future iterations become more affordable and outperform competing devices such as the Meta Quest Pro, the Vision Pro is likely to capture the hearts of users.
