I’ve had the first generation Vision Pro since shortly after it’s release to the public back in February. I think the biggest question is, have I used it enough to justify the purchase? Ultimately, I feel that the answer is a mixed, no. I don’t regret getting it, it is amazing for what it does. Do i use it daily? No. Weekly? Almost, the biggest detractor is when I’ve had a weeklong dull headache, or just felt ill or nauseous. I call it – the iPad planted to my face, or may wall sized Mac display. It doesn’t justify the price tag, but it lessens the sting.
What do I primarily use it for?
Visual content looks amazing, if you can get past the lens flare in a high contrast scene – in particular movies in cinema mode. It’s the best 3-D personal television on the market, after all. Although google hasn’t published any apps – watching YouTube and streaming YouTube tv work flawlessly. The DirectTV stream app also works well. That being said, what I have primarily used it for is a Mac Display. Stretching the screen out over the wall in the room is an executive experience. Removing the room and entering an immersive environment (the Moon in particularly, is otherworldly) is a blessing for the claustrophobic.
Apple is getting a lot of things right.
The VisionOS experience felt polished from the start and has only gotten better. I haven’t run into very many bugs. The limitations put in by other software vendors are keeping the Vision Pro from seeing more use out of me. I am looking at you, Microsoft – allow Authenticator to work so I can access work materials. It would be nice if I could use my work Mac with it without having to log into my work based iCloud account, but I digress. These gripes aside, the Vision Pro is a very capable device. It’s a great iPad.
Could it work as a productivity device? Dictation works very well, a Bluetooth keyboard, as well, makes it an excellent way to put words on the electric canvas. If you work primarily with a web browser, basic Office apps (again – major drawback- but could be worked around) it could do. What it is better at, again, is an external display to a Mac. I’ve read you can also use a PC- but I haven’t experimented that far. With the help of the overhead band, I can wear it for several hours comfortably.
Comfort
I would not recommend trying to eat, drink or chew gum though while wearing it – it shortly becomes noticeably uncomfortable then. I haven’t been able to attribute any eye discomfort to it, except the need to blink more to prevent dry eyes. The Vision Pro is also the only virtual headset that doesn’t make me want to vomit within 5 minutes of putting it on.
Best Bits
Where it excels is in the consumption experience. The built in speakers are very good. Tack in a pair of AirPods if you don’t want anyone else listening though. I want to use it more and more often. I haven’t gotten too many weird looks on the rare appearance while in public. The coworkers get a kick out of it. I have no shame although It’s raised a few snarky comments. They can get over it. Immersive environments and virtual/augmented reality – it does very well.
Worst bits
The price. The lack of enterprise support. Limited dedicated software; no breakthrough app. But I argue that the breakthrough is the devices and the implementation of the OS is the breakthrough.
Despite the faults. After getting over the price sticker shock, I am still happy to have a VisionPro.