Podcasts > Better Offline > An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

By Cool Zone Media

Dive into the nuanced discussion between Ed Zitron and Joanna Stern on Better Offline as they dissect the Vision Pro’s performance and implications for the future of AR/VR technologies. They navigate the rocky terrain of this ambitious device, laying bare the reality behind its alluring promise: when Vision Pro works as intended, it immerses users in a customizable digital world, yet a gap between expectation and delivery is evident, marked by fitment woes, unreliable tracking, and interface hiccups.

The conversation covers more than just the product's performance; it delves into the larger conversation about the industry's readiness for such high-stakes innovation. With a price tag that poses significant pause, the episode leaves listeners pondering whether the Vision Pro's advanced features justify its cost in light of missing mainstream support and essential applications. The technological landscape is on the cusp of a revolution, and as Google and other major players invest in AR/VR, this episode of Better Offline captures the current standoff between potential and practicality in the realm of wearable computing.

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

1-Page Summary

Vision Pro's poor fit leads to inconsistent experience and tracking issues

Vision Pro has been criticized for a poor fit that leads to tracking issues and an inconsistent user experience. Reports suggest the device frequently malfunctions, failing to display menus or recognize eye-tracking selections. This problem appears to connect directly to issues with the product's fit and interface, often requiring hard restarts. The ordering process is flawed, offering expensive sizing adjustments that fail to provide a comfortable fit for most users, resulting in a red mark on the forehead for some. The lack of effective customer support exacerbates these problems, leaving users to seek solutions on forums like Reddit. The rushed-to-market feeling of Vision Pro, indicated by its beta status and unpolished features, reinforces the impression that it was released without thorough testing.

Vision Pro keyboard is astonishingly bad

Ed Zitron and Joanna Stern have heavily criticized the Vision Pro keyboard for its failure in functionality, difficult text entry, and drastic departure from Apple’s historical keyboard design. The virtual keyboard’s cumbersome interface hampers workflow, with unexpected pop-ups even while using a physical keyboard, and demonstrates a lack of real-world workflow testing. Users experience erratic text selection and disruption when typing, signaling that real-world usage scenarios were not adequately assessed. This poor experience starkly contrasts with the high-quality standards expected from Apple products.

When Vision Pro works well, the experience is immersive and customizable

Despite its issues, Vision Pro can offer an immersive and customizable experience when it operates smoothly. Users can create a virtual multi-monitor workspace in any physical setting, which enhances productivity and creativity. Eye and finger controls provide intuitive navigation through apps and documents, giving users a more integrated experience with their environment. The advanced pass-through video technology enables users to remain aware of their surroundings, although it's not typically suggested for use in public settings.

Vision Pro’s high price of entry cannot currently be justified

The Vision Pro's high cost, which starts at $3,500, is not considered justifiable given its numerous limitations. Significant issues such as a lack of mainstream developer support and the absence of key applications greatly reduce the device's value. The presence of software bugs and the need for expensive additional accessories suggest that the Vision Pro's current utility and reliability do not match its high price tag. Compared to traditional hardware, which offers greater functionality at a lower price, Vision Pro presents a less economically rational option for consumers.

Potential exists for future AR/VR to transform computing

Despite current shortcomings, there is potential for AR/VR technologies like Vision Pro to revolutionize the future of computing. Encouraging productivity use cases, such as Stern's cooking scenario, reveal how these technologies may enhance everyday tasks. As major developers like Google engage more with AR/VR, the computing landscape could be transformed with innovative applications. However, before this transformation can reach the mainstream, significant bugs and user experience issues will need to be resolved to make these devices accessible and friendly to the average consumer.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Vision Pro's fit issues causing tracking problems indicate that the device's physical fit on the user's head affects its ability to accurately track eye movements and interactions. This can lead to malfunctions like menu display failures and inaccurate eye-tracking selections. The fit issues may result in discomfort for users, with some experiencing a red mark on the forehead due to poor sizing adjustments. These problems can impact the overall user experience and functionality of the Vision Pro device.
  • The ordering process for Vision Pro includes flaws that result in users needing expensive sizing adjustments. This means that users may have to pay extra to adjust the fit of the device to their liking. The flaws in the ordering process contribute to users experiencing discomfort or issues with the fit of the device. Expensive sizing adjustments may not always guarantee a comfortable fit for most users.
  • The lack of effective customer support exacerbating issues means that the problems users face with the Vision Pro device are made worse by the inadequate assistance or guidance provided by the company. This can lead to frustration and difficulty in resolving technical issues or concerns promptly. Without proper support channels or solutions from the manufacturer, users may struggle to address the issues they encounter with the product. Inadequate customer support can significantly impact the overall user experience and satisfaction with the device.
  • The "rushed-to-market feeling of Vision Pro" suggests that the product was released quickly without thorough testing, leading to issues with its performance and user experience. This feeling indicates that the device may not have undergone sufficient development and refinement before being launched. It implies that the product might lack polish and could have been introduced prematurely to the market. This term highlights concerns about the quality and readiness of Vision Pro when it was made available to consumers.
  • The criticism of the Vision Pro keyboard stems from its departure from Apple's traditional keyboard design, leading to functionality issues and a cumbersome interface. Critics like Ed Zitron and Joanna Stern have highlighted the keyboard's lack of real-world workflow testing, resulting in erratic text selection and disruption during typing. This departure from Apple's renowned keyboard design standards has contributed to a poor user experience, with unexpected pop-ups and usability challenges. The drastic changes in the virtual keyboard's functionality have been a point of contention, as it fails to meet the high-quality expectations associated with Apple products.
  • Creating a virtual multi-monitor workspace involves using augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technology to simulate multiple computer screens in a single physical space. This allows users to have the productivity benefits of a multi-monitor setup without the need for physical monitors. Users can arrange and interact with different applications and windows as if they were spread across separate physical screens, enhancing productivity and multitasking capabilities. This feature is particularly useful for tasks that require working with multiple applications simultaneously, such as coding, graphic design, or data analysis.
  • Eye and finger controls for navigation in the context of Vision Pro typically involve using a combination of eye movements and finger gestures to interact with the device's interface and control various functions. Users can navigate through apps, menus, and documents by looking at specific areas on the screen and using their fingers to perform actions like selecting, scrolling, or tapping. This integrated approach aims to provide a more intuitive and immersive user experience, allowing for seamless interaction with the virtual environment created by the device.
  • Advanced pass-through video technology in the context of AR/VR devices like Vision Pro allows users to see and interact with the real world while wearing the device. It overlays digital information onto the user's view of the physical environment, enhancing the immersive experience. This technology enables users to remain spatially aware and interact with their surroundings without needing to remove the AR/VR device. It enhances safety and usability by blending virtual content seamlessly with the real world.
  • The Vision Pro device mentioned in the text starts at a price of $3,500. This high cost is considered significant in comparison to other similar products in the market. The price point reflects the advanced technology and features integrated into the Vision Pro, contributing to its premium pricing. The cost may be a barrier for some consumers looking for more affordable options in the augmented reality and virtual reality device market.
  • The presence of software bugs in the Vision Pro device indicates that there are programming errors or issues within the software that can cause malfunctions or unexpected behavior. Additionally, the need for expensive accessories suggests that users may have to purchase additional items at a high cost to enhance the functionality or usability of the device. These factors contribute to the overall user experience and perception of the device's value proposition.
  • AR/VR technologies have the potential to revolutionize the computing landscape by offering immersive and interactive experiences that blend the physical and digital worlds. These technologies can enhance productivity, creativity, and everyday tasks through innovative applications and scenarios. Major tech companies are investing in AR/VR development, signaling a growing interest in leveraging these technologies for various industries and consumer experiences. However, addressing current challenges like software bugs and user experience issues is crucial for widespread adoption and mainstream integration of AR/VR devices.

Counterarguments

  • The poor fit and tracking issues may be a result of early adoption challenges that are common with new technology, and could be addressed in future updates or iterations of the product.
  • The ordering process and sizing adjustments might be part of a learning curve for the company, which could lead to improvements in how they offer customization options to users.
  • Customer support issues are often resolved over time as a company scales up its support infrastructure in response to user feedback.
  • The beta status of Vision Pro might be an intentional strategy to gather user feedback for improvements, which is a common practice in tech industry.
  • Criticism of the Vision Pro keyboard could be subjective, as some users may appreciate the new design and find it innovative or refreshing.
  • The virtual keyboard interface issues might be mitigated by software updates or by users adapting to the new system over time.
  • The immersive and customizable experience provided by Vision Pro when it works well suggests that the technology has a strong foundation with room for growth and optimization.
  • The high price of Vision Pro could be justified by its pioneering technology and the costs associated with developing cutting-edge AR/VR hardware and software.
  • The lack of mainstream developer support and key applications could be a temporary stage in the technology's lifecycle, with more developers likely to come on board as the platform matures.
  • The potential for AR/VR to transform computing is a strong argument for continued investment and development in the technology, despite current limitations.
  • The engagement of major developers in AR/VR is a positive sign that the industry sees potential in these technologies, which could lead to rapid advancements and improvements in user experience.

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

Vision Pro's poor fit leads to inconsistent experience and tracking issues

Concerns have been raised about the functionality and user experience of Vision Pro, with numerous reports suggesting that the product suffers from significant issues related to fit, tracking, and customer support, hinting at a hasty release.

Hardware and software frequently bug out or stop working

Ed Zitron describes various problems with the device, ranging from the inability to display menus or projected elements to malfunctions in eye-tracking capabilities. These issues imply that the hardware or software may frequently bug out. Zitron had observed the product failing to recognize selections in documents, an issue seemingly related to the fit and eye-tracking functionality. He also reported instances where the Vision Pro did not properly load the user interface, calling for hard restarts. Additionally, when picking up the device, it would sometimes not accept where he was looking, leading to a disconcerting experience.

Supply chain fails to properly size most users

Zitron criticizes the sizing and ordering process, explaining that obtaining a different sized light seal is expensive and the device feels wrong when worn. Moreover, the cushions that line the light seals cost extra. This suggests that most users are not properly accommodated by the current sizing options, which appear to be nonsensical. Stern reinforces this point by discussing how the Vision Pro did not fit her colleagues well and often left them with a red mark on their foreheads. She added that the supply chain and infrastructure for getting the Vision Pro accurately fitted are inadequate, creating a highly variable experience among users.

Lack of support leaves users troubleshooting problems alone

Zitron and Stern express frustration at the lack of support offered by Apple for the Vision Pro. They share experiences of having to rely on Reddit posts for help, problematic support calls that were brief and unhelply, and being left on hold without resolution. Zitron had expected warnings for poor fit or eye-tracking issues, but they failed ...

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Vision Pro's poor fit leads to inconsistent experience and tracking issues

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A light seal is a component used in devices like VR headsets to block out external light and enhance the immersive experience. It helps to create a dark environment around the user's eyes, improving visual clarity and reducing distractions during use. Light seals are often customizable in terms of size and material to ensure a comfortable fit for the user. In the context of the text, the light seal is mentioned in relation to the fit and comfort issues experienced with the Vision Pro device.
  • Memoji are personalized, animated avatars introduced by Apple that users can create to represent themselves in digital communication. These avatars can mimic the user's facial expressions ...

Counterarguments

  • The fit issues may be subjective and vary from user to user; some individuals may find the Vision Pro to fit comfortably and work well for them.
  • Hardware and software issues could be isolated incidents or related to user error, rather than indicative of widespread problems with the device.
  • The supply chain might offer a range of sizes that do fit a significant portion of the user base, and additional sizing options could be in development based on user feedback.
  • Customer support experiences can be highly variable, and other users may have had positive interactions with support teams or found the provided resources helpful.
  • The product might have undergone exte ...

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

Vision Pro keyboard is astonishingly bad

Ed Zitron and Joanna Stern unleash scathing reviews of the Vision Pro's keyboard, describing it as an embodiment of failure in functionality that also strays far from Apple’s historical standard of keyboard design.

Makes text entry difficult and frustrating

Zitron characterizes the Vision Pro keyboard as the worst he has encountered on any modern consumer device. Typing is awkward, cumbersome, and feels more like a physical exertion of pecking or poking at the air, which is both ill-suited for tasks requiring precision and nonfunctional for practical use. Not only is text entry difficult, but the virtual keyboard also interferes with workflows, especially when it pops up unexpectedly even while using a physical keyboard.

Contrasts with Apple’s historical keyboard excellence

Both Zitron and Stern point out the stark contrast between the Vision Pro keyboard and the level of excellence ordinarily associated with Apple products. Stern expresses her disbelief and disappointment, noting that the experience feels uncharacteristic for the brand known for its intuitive and high-quality hardware. She illustrates the disjointed nature of looking down to type only to have to look up to see the entered text. The reviewers concur that the keyboard feels like an incomplete product without the addition of a physical keyboard.

Shows lack of real-world workflow testing

Zitron sheds light on the troubl ...

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Vision Pro keyboard is astonishingly bad

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ed Zitron and Joanna Stern are well-known technology journalists and reviewers who often provide insights and critiques on various tech products. They are respected for their expertise in evaluating devices and sharing their opinions with the public. In this context, they have shared their critical assessments of the Vision Pro keyboard, highlighting its shortcomings and contrasting it with Apple's usual standards of quality. Their reviews offer valuable perspectives on the usability and functionality of the keyboard, helping consumers make informed decisions.
  • A Bluetooth keyboard is a wireless keyboard that connects to devices using Bluetooth technology, allowing for cordless communication with computers, tablets, or smartphones. It eliminates the need for physical cables by establishing a wireless connection via Bluetooth, typically found in modern electronic devices. This type of keyboard offers flexibility and convenience, enabling users to type from a distance without being physically tethered to the device. The Bluetooth keyboard mentioned in the text interacts with the Vision Pro device wirelessly, contributing to the issues highlighted in the review.
  • Real-world workflow testing involves assessing how a product functions in real-life scenarios to id ...

Counterarguments

  • The Vision Pro keyboard may represent an innovative approach to typing that requires an adjustment period for users to become proficient.
  • Some users might appreciate the minimalist design and the potential for a new typing experience that the Vision Pro keyboard offers.
  • The issues with the virtual keyboard popping up could be addressed with software updates, indicating a commitment to improvement based on user feedback.
  • Apple's history of excellence includes taking risks and pushing boundaries, which sometimes leads to initial setbacks but can result in breakthroughs in the long run.
  • The Vision Pro keyboard might be targeting a niche market or use case where its unique features are advantageous.
  • The reported lack of real-world workflow testing could be a misinterpretation, and Apple may have tested the keyboard in ways that did not anticipa ...

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

When Vision Pro works well, the experience is immersive and customizable

The Vision Pro, when functioning correctly, offers an engaging and adaptable experience that blends the virtual and actual worlds, providing users with an innovative way to interact with their digital environment.

Ability to open a multi-monitor workspace anywhere provides creative possibilities

Users of the Vision Pro are provided with the ability to transform any space into a dynamic workspace, complete with the ability to move and resize windows using hand and eye controls. Joanna Stern and Zitron attest to the productivity and convenience offered by the device, as Stern described setting multiple timers virtually above a pot while cooking, and Zitron shared his experience of writing a lengthy script in a comfortable setting, which showcases the creative possibilities that come with having multiple monitors available anywhere.

Eye and finger controls allow intuitive app and document navigation

Stern illustrates how the digital interface of the Vision Pro can be overlaid onto physical objects, offering an experience that seamlessly integrates virtual and real elements. The controls of the device are designed to be intuitive; users ...

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When Vision Pro works well, the experience is immersive and customizable

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Pass-through technology, in the context of the Vision Pro, utilizes cameras to show the user's real-world surroundings within the virtual environment. This feature enhances the user's awareness of their physical space while interacting with digital content. It allows for a seamless integration of virtual and real elements, providing a more immersive experience. The pass-through video feature is designed to give users a realistic view of their environment, enhancing the overall user experience.
  • Hand and eye controls in the context of the Vision Pro device refer to the ability for users to interact with the digital interface using a combination of hand gestures and eye movements. This feature allows users to manipulate and navigate through the virtual environment by u ...

Counterarguments

  • While Vision Pro may offer an immersive experience, it could also lead to increased screen time and potential digital fatigue.
  • The ability to open a multi-monitor workspace anywhere assumes that users have the necessary space and privacy, which may not be the case in crowded or shared environments.
  • Eye and finger controls, though intuitive for some, may have a learning curve for others and could be less efficient than traditional input methods for certain tasks.
  • Pass-through video techno ...

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

Vision Pro’s high price of entry cannot currently be justified

The Vision Pro's steep price and performance issues have sparked debate among tech commentators, with many concluding that its cost is not yet justified given its current limitations.

Lacks mainstream developer support and key apps

Starting at $3,500 and reaching nearly $4,000 for models with more storage, the Vision Pro's cost is a significant financial investment, comparable to or even exceeding the monthly rent for many people. Critics like Zitron and Stern point to the device's lack of mainstream developer support and the absence of key applications as major setbacks.

Compatibility with essential iPhone and iPad apps is paltry, with notable omissions like YouTube and Netflix. Furthermore, while platforms like Slack are available, they're not optimized for the Vision Pro, leading to a frustrating user experience. While YouTube has announced plans for more apps, the current deficit hampers the device’s utility, especially in professional contexts.

Stern highlights the presence of major applications such as Microsoft 365, yet Google services have not been adapted for the device, revealing a gap in critical developer engagement. The sparse developer community calls into question the device's readiness for the consumer market.

Too many software issues for a consumer device

Beyond developer support, the Vision Pro suffers from numerous software problems. Zitron had to seek community-led solutions on Reddit, revealing a void of official guidance. Selecting text in Google Docs, as an example, is reported to be 'extremely broken,' illustrating software issues unsuitable for a consumer device.

Moreover, bugs are described as profoundly affecting the user experience, raising concern about the device's reliability. An additional jest from Stern is that to unlock the full potential of Vision Pro, one mus ...

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Vision Pro’s high price of entry cannot currently be justified

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The lack of mainstream developer support for the Vision Pro means that popular software developers have not fully optimized their apps for this device, leading to compatibility issues and a limited selection of applications tailored for its unique features. This can result in a less-than-ideal user experience and may hinder the device's adoption among consumers who rely on a wide range of apps for their daily tasks.
  • The Vision Pro faces challenges with essential app compatibility, such as missing popular apps like YouTube and Netflix. While some major applications like Microsoft 365 are available, Google services have not been optimized for the device. This lack of key app support hampers the device's utility, especially in professional settings.
  • The Vision Pro faced software issues such as text selection in Google Docs being reported as 'extremely broken,' indicating significant usability problems. Users encountered bugs that profoundly impacted the overall user experience, raising concerns about the device's reliability. Official guidance was lacking, leading users to seek community-led solutions on platforms like Reddit. These software challenges highlighted the device's limitat ...

Counterarguments

  • High price may reflect the cutting-edge technology and potential future applications that are not immediately apparent.
  • Early adoption often comes with higher costs, which subsidize the development of new technology for wider, more affordable release in the future.
  • The lack of mainstream developer support could be indicative of a new market that is yet to be fully realized, with growth potential as more developers come on board.
  • Limited compatibility with iPhone and iPad apps may encourage innovation and the development of new, optimized applications for the Vision Pro.
  • The presence of major applications like Microsoft 365 suggests that some key players see potential in the platform.
  • Sparse developer community might be a temporary stage in the device's lifecycle, with more developers expected to engage as the platform matures.
  • Software issues are common in new technology and can be addressed through updates and patches over time.
  • Community-led solutions on platforms like Reddit can foster a strong user commun ...

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An Autopsy of Apple's Vision Pro

Potential exists for future AR/VR to transform computing

Stern offers a glimpse into how augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, such as Vision Pro, could redefine the computing experience, marking a potential shift in how we engage with digital and real-world tasks.

Encouraging productivity use cases observed

Using an innovative scenario for cooking, Stern illustrates the productive capabilities of the Vision Pro, highlighting its utility in improving everyday activities. This instance supports the broader potential for AR/VR technology to benefit productivity. Stern also notes the inclusion of Microsoft 365 apps within the device, hinting at further productivity applications and suggesting that once developers like Google notice users interacting with the product, they may invest more, forging a path for a transformation in computing.

Further, Stern underscores that devices like the Vision Pro could revolutionize how we view computing, the environments we work in, and our approaches to work, setting the stage for a seamless blend between virtual assistance and physical t ...

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Potential exists for future AR/VR to transform computing

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • AR/VR technology has the potential to enhance everyday tasks by overlaying digital information onto the real world, offering interactive and immersive experiences. For example, in cooking scenarios, AR/VR can provide step-by-step guidance, recipe visualizations, and hands-free assistance. These technologies aim to improve productivity, efficiency, and user experience by blending virtual elements seamlessly into real-world activities. The integration of productivity tools like Microsoft 365 apps further enhances the utility of AR/VR devices in various tasks, paving the way for a more interconnected digital and physical environment.
  • The challenges related to using AR/VR devices include bugs affecting functionality, difficulties with ...

Counterarguments

  • AR/VR technologies may not be suitable for all types of computing tasks, and traditional interfaces could remain more efficient for certain activities.
  • The productivity benefits of AR/VR might be overstated, as they could introduce new distractions or complexities that offset their potential advantages.
  • The integration of Microsoft 365 apps does not guarantee widespread productivity gains, as the effectiveness of these apps within an AR/VR context has yet to be proven.
  • The notion that AR/VR devices will revolutionize computing and work environments assumes a one-size-fits-all approach, ignoring the diverse needs and preferences of users.
  • A seamless blend between virtual assistance and physical tasks may not be achievable in the near term due to technological limitations and user acceptance c ...

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