Apple unveiled its mixed reality (MR) device, Vision Pro, at the 2023 WorldWide Developers Conference (WWDC). The device marks a path toward what could be a new era of spatial computing. However, due to its limited demand and lofty price point, the product is viewed more as a tech demonstrator rather than a commercially feasible device.
Priced at a hefty USD$3,499, Vision Pro is over three times the cost of the most expensive headset in Meta's line of MR and virtual reality (VR) devices. The utilization of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) remains rather limited in mainstream applications. Coupled with its steep price and the fact that MR devices are not a vital need for the general consumer, and that other alternatives sufficiently meet current use case requirements, Vision Pro will not likely attract high demand.
The device that has created a buzz in the tech world is equipped with the most cutting-edge technologies. It operates on two key chips: the M2 chip, which handles the operating system and computing tasks, and the brand-new R1 chip, which processes the inputs from the cameras, sensors, and microphones—all integral components for delivering an immersive MR experience.
The majority of IC manufacturers in Taiwan are already technologically equipped to produce hardware necessary for mixed reality. Firms like MediaTek and Novatek Microelectronics are already producing for major companies such as Meta and Sony. With the exception of a few components, like system-on-chip integrated circuits and OLED display driver chips, most of these manufacturers are capable of supplying the remaining key components. These include the image signal processor, optical sensors, hand tracking, audio chips, digital microphones, and imaging chips—all crucial elements for the camera module in MR devices.
Despite the potential hurdles, Vision Pro may still spur the development of more affordable and widely-applicable MR devices, providing inspiration and setting a benchmark in the growing MR industry.
Article translated by Julie Chang
