Apple is betting that “spatial computing” will soon become part of everyday language. But is the Vision Pro headset the future of tech interaction?
Apple’s highly anticipated Vision Pro headset is now in stores. More people will likely wear these sleek, futuristic goggles. They are designed to bring in a new era of “spatial computing.””
Apple’s marketing team aims to make a concept more relatable and popular. Yet, they avoid terms like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) when describing the Vision Pro’s capabilities. Apple wants this to be seen as the next big shift, as revolutionary as the iPhone in 2007.
“We’re excited for people to experience the magic,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook during a Thursday call with analysts, referring to the Vision Pro.
But magic comes at a price—$3,500 (€3,255), to be exact. Apple’s product is very pricey. Many analysts think the company might sell only about 1 million units in the first year.
Still, early numbers don’t always tell the whole story. Apple only sold about 4 million iPhones in its first year, and now it sells over 200 million annually. Some products begin as a niche but later become essential to our lives. Spatial computing might follow this trend if it links with more apps and tools. For instance, platforms like 22Bet login could offer immersive experiences that enhance our interaction.
Spatial Computing
If Vision Pro gains traction, “spatial computing” could join the ranks of everyday tech terms like “mobile” or “personal computing.” Apple played a big part in those tech revolutions.
What is Spatial Computing?
It shows the link between our physical world and a virtual world created by technology. It’s about combining the real world with digital spaces. This makes it easier for people and machines to interact in their physical environments.
Cathy Hackl, a seasoned consultant, points out that these tasks rely on AR and AI. These tools are essential for making spatial computing happen. She is now leading a start-up focused on apps for Vision Pro.
“Spatial computing helps devices understand the world in entirely new ways,” said one expert. The goal? To turn everything from cars to smartwatches into seamless computing tools.
The app lineup will include various TV networks, video streaming services, video games, and educational tools. Yet Netflix and Google’s YouTube are not part of it.
The Sinister Side of Spatial Computing
Vision Pro might show a troubling side of tech. Spatial computing can change how people view the world, even without a headset. They may think life is much more exciting through the goggles.
Of course, Apple isn’t the only major player diving into spatial tech.
For the last few years, Google has developed “Project Starline.” This service offers three-dimensional videoconferencing. It features ultra-realistic visuals and a “magic window” effect. This lets two people in different cities feel like they’re in the same room.
Facebook’s corporate parent, Meta Platforms, has also sold the Quest headset for years. The company hasn’t marketed the device like that yet. Still, it might be seen as a platform for spatial computing.
In contrast, Vision Pro is supported by a company known for strong marketing and loyal customers. This combination often sets off trends.
Apple’s Vision Pro could be a big step forward, but spatial computing has existed for over 20 years.
In 2003, Simon Greenwold wrote a 132-page paper at MIT. He argued that automatic-flushing toilets are a type of basic spatial computing.
Greenwold said that a basic motion-sensing toilet is a form of spatial computing. It reacts to real human movement in actual space.
‘Minority Report’
Of course, the Vision Pro is far more sophisticated than a toilet. One great feature is the high-resolution screens. They can play three-dimensional videos of events and people, making it feel like you are experiencing those moments again.
Apple set the stage for selling the Vision Pro by adding “spatial video” recording to the premium iPhone 15 models launched in September.
Apple’s headset responds to hand gestures and eye movements. This makes the device feel like a natural part of the user.
Users can wear the headset and use their hands. They can pull up and arrange virtual computer screens. It’s like a scene from Tom Cruise’s 2002 film, Minority Report.
Hackl stated that spatial computing “is a technology that adapts to the user, not the other way around.”
“It’s all supposed to be very natural.”
We’ll find out if eating with someone in goggles feels more natural than glued to their smartphone.
