Apple is reportedly planning to launch its Vision Pro product lineup in February next year and has started to ramp up production of the virtual reality headset in anticipation of the public release.
The tech giant's China facilities have allegedly increased production of the headsets to have them ready for customers in line with the rumored launch date. The Vision Pro is Apple's latest item in the new product category since the introduction of smartwatches in 2015.
Apple's Vision Pro Headset Launch
Apple's Vision Pro virtual reality headset could come as early as February 2024 as the tech giant is ramping up production of the item.
The decision to launch the virtual reality headset in February 2024 is seen as significant as the company seeks to venture into the world of mixed reality. This combines virtual and augmented reality into one. While Meta Platforms currently dominates the market, Apple is not planning on giving an inch and is determined to make a strong first impression with its new product.
The rollout of Apple's Vision Pro headset line is expected to be the company's most complex product launch to date. It would require new sales strategies and equipment as per the latest report of the supposed release, as per PYMNTS.
The virtual reality headset features customized components that must be assembled correctly and packaged at the point of sale. It is crucial to ensure that the item properly fits with the customer as an ill-fitting headset may not display content properly and could become uncomfortable for the user.
In preparation for the planned launch, Apple has worked on enhancing its retail stores to be able to accommodate the Vision Pro headset and its various accessories. The different sizes and configurations of the virtual reality product will require additional storage space and new demonstration areas will have to be set up for customers to try on the new item.
The tech giant is taking proactive measures to train its retail employees on how to effectively market and sell the Vision Pro headset. There are at least two staff members from each retail outlet that will attend training sessions at the company's headquarters. There, they will learn about the headset's features and proper fitting techniques.
Preparing for the Virtual Reality Headset's Release
Early indications of the launch date of Apple's Vision Pro headset came in June this year when it said that the product would be released "early next year." The tech giant's new product will have a starting price of $3,499 and is expected to be released in limited supply, according to The Verge.
Additionally, launching the first new Apple hardware platform in years would include new software with visionOS. Industry insider Mark Gurman said that the next version would arrive later next year along with the usual Mac and iPhone software updates.
Another element is the recent release of iOS 17.2, which allows the iPhone 15 Pro to capture 3D-encoded spatial videos in 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second. Users would need to use a headset to play them back in full detail.
The tech giant also sent an email to software developers on Wednesday, telling them to "get ready" for the Vision Pro. The company recommended that they should test their apps with the latest tools and send their software to Apple for feedback, said Reuters.
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