I understand your point, but I truly believe that Apple’s Vision Pro (at least the current iteration) was never intended as a mainstream product for the following reasons:
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It’s hard to imagine that a $3,500 headset would become an overnight sensation;
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There’s barely any software available to support it, with most content aimed at showcasing user-case scenarios and the hardware’s potential.
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It seems designed to showcase Apple’s design and “vision” of what a high-end headset should be.
Despite this, some news outlets report that the product flopped due to Apple selling fewer than 500,000 units in 2024. Apple Insider reported that in the first three quarters of 2024, the company sold around 370,000 units of its pricey headset.
While it’s true that Apple reviewed their expectations and cut production, and interest in the product has dwindled after the initial buzz, it’s worth noting that when Samsung first launched its Galaxy Fold, sales were far below forecast in the first year, but improved over time. Although it’s not a smashing hit compared to other Galaxy products, it has found its niche.
The big question now is whether Apple will discontinue its pricey proof of concept. Will there be an Apple Vision Pro 2? It’s hard to tell. If other companies are successfully selling their glasses, Apple might release a stripped-down version of its Vision Pro, priced around $1,000, for a second attempt. However, crystal ball gazing is a tough game.
echodot@feddit.uk 4 weeks ago
Calling it a dev kit is just copism.
Apple never advertised this as anything other than a fully baked product. There was no suggestion that this was a prototype or development preview. This was being sold as the next big thing in computing.
The thing is it’s an actually decent product, if they just made it with slightly less advanced components, an integrated battery, and the ability to connect to any computer not just a Mac it could be something interesting. I am sure somebody else will come along with a more realistic version of the product in the next year or so.