Section 1.1: Finally Using Vision Pro

Importing the Vision Pro from the US was not an easy task. The process was complicated, requiring a US delivery address, and the device was region-locked.

Image courtesy of author

Although this made the headset less functional in the UK, I could still access my Apple ID. However, to explore the App Store, I needed a US Apple ID and a credit card linked to an American address. Additionally, the Apple TV app was completely inoperable. This cumbersome situation limited my use of the Vision Pro to merely connecting it to my MacBook to extend the display into visionOS.

Image courtesy of Apple

Truthfully, I overlooked the UK launch date amid a hectic schedule. When I finally remembered, I eagerly donned the headset and accessed the App Store with my UK Apple ID.

To my relief, it worked seamlessly. I dove into the Apple TV app, which functioned perfectly as well. I had previously worried that my US version might be permanently locked, but thankfully, that was not the case.

The App Store experience in visionOS is intriguing. There’s a mix of apps designed specifically for Vision Pro alongside many that originated from iPhone or iPad. While some well-known titles are present (Microsoft Word on Vision Pro, anyone?), the majority are adapted versions that are hard to identify. Apple has cleverly labeled many applications to suggest compatibility with Vision Pro, even if they are not originally built for it. This strategy likely aims to attract more developers to the platform.

I immediately ventured into gaming. While it didn’t match the thrill of the Meta Quest experiences, I enjoyed flying through space in Synth Riders, catching melodies with my hands. Like all Vision Pro interactions, it is a solitary venture, yet undeniably captivating and immersive.

Next, I explored Apple’s new Immersive Video content.

This video explains how to lock or unlock the Vision Pro, detailing the process and user experience.

In Apple’s words, Immersive Video is “a groundbreaking storytelling format utilizing 3D video captured in 8K with a 180-degree field of view and Spatial Audio.” The experience is astonishing. I found myself in the studio with Alicia Keys as she performed with her band, feeling a strange gaze as she moved around the piano. I also joined a high-wire artist as she traversed between two peaks and even visited a prehistoric world teeming with dinosaurs.

Section 1.2: Audience Engagement with Vision Pro

Experiencing the Vision Pro from this fresh perspective led me to ask my YouTube audience if they wanted more content related to the headset.

Image courtesy of author

Of the 52 comments received, the overwhelming majority advised against it.

“Vision Pro is a no.”

“Nah thanks.”

“Technically impressive but feels isolating.”

“Not a necessity for the average consumer.”

“Oh please, no.”

“Absolutely a dead product.”

While a few viewers expressed interest in exploring the App Store and sharing family opinions, they were in the minority. Most comments clearly indicated that investing time in Vision Pro content right now would be unwise.

Image courtesy of author

This feedback raises an important question: When will Vision Pro regain popularity?

I genuinely hope to see renewed interest in Vision Pro for two reasons: to justify my investment in the device and because I find it an intriguing piece of technology.

Image courtesy of author

As a tech reviewer, exploring beyond smartphones and tablets is crucial for maintaining sanity. I'm eager to delve into what Apple envisions as the future of computing, potentially replacing the Mac and even the iPhone.

However, if audience engagement is lacking, it’s difficult to justify continued public discussions on the topic. Our SEO analysis supports this. I consulted with my SEO expert, Dylan, who ran metrics on Vision Pro to determine if it warranted further content on our website.

Image courtesy of author

“I don’t think it’s worth investing in long-term content given the current market demand,” he commented. “Interest peaked around its launch, but I wouldn’t categorize the topic as evergreen.”

Given his expertise, it’s likely this will be my last blog entry on the Vision Pro for some time.

A revival in interest seems necessary for the device to regain its status. I foresee three potential scenarios that could spark this resurgence: the upcoming visionOS 2 release, a competing product launch (such as Meta Connect 2024), or the anticipated introduction of a more affordable visionOS headset.

I plan to cover visionOS 2 later this year due to the exciting updates, but I suspect a more budget-friendly option will be essential for Vision Pro to truly capture public attention again. That appears to be some time away, unfortunately.