Apple’s Vision Pro headset could be a replacement for an iPad, and it is at least four generations away from being perfect, suggests a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
According to Gurman, the team working on the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset believes that it needs further improvement before it can be used on a daily basis. They feel that the device has not yet reached its best possible version due to issues with both its hardware and software.
In simpler terms, the headset isn’t ready for everyday use because it still has problems that need to be fixed.
Some individuals are contemplating whether Apple’s Vision Pro headset could serve as a substitute for an iPad. However, it appears that the device is still a long way off from perfection, possibly needing at least four more generations of development. A Bloomberg report suggests that the team behind the Vision Pro believes significant refinement is necessary for it to become a viable option for daily use. Challenges with both hardware and software mean the Vision Pro has yet to reach its envisioned level of performance.
Indirectly, Apple seems to be positioning the iPad as an alternative to the MacBook, and the Vision Pro may contribute to bridging that gap. It’s anticipated that the Vision Pro will appeal to users requiring a large-screen device for light work tasks and content consumption.
Challenges Facing the Apple Vision Pro
The Apple Vision Pro encounters several challenges that hinder its optimal performance and user experience such as:
- Weight: The device faces issues related to its weight, particularly with the Solo Knit Band, which prioritizes aesthetics over user comfort.
- Battery Life: Another concern is the limited battery life, offering only around two hours of usage, which may not be sufficient for tasks such as streaming a full-length film even with an external battery pack.
- VisionOS Operating System: The VisionOS operating system requires further refinement, especially in terms of gesture support. Additionally, the passthrough experience, while better than that of the Meta Quest 3, still falls short of expectations.
- Realism: The headset lacks realism in portraying the real world, highlighting the need for improvements in this area.
- Custom Apps and Features: Custom apps tailored to the hardware are necessary, and features like eye and hand tracking, as well as Personas or digital avatars, are still in development.
- Compatibility Issues: Although compatible with MacBooks, challenges arise when using a mouse and keyboard in digital environments. Visibility of the mouse and keyboard, especially within immersive digital backgrounds, remains an issue. The virtual keyboard also lacks intuitiveness for serious work.
