Apple, known for its successful product launches such as the iPod and iPhone, recently announced the upcoming release of its mixed-reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro. While some see this as a potential game-changing moment for wearable technology, history suggests that similar devices have struggled to gain widespread adoption. Previous attempts at augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) headsets, like Nintendo's Virtual Boy and Magic Leap's offering, faced issues such as high costs, limited functionality, and a lack of compelling use cases.
OculusVR, a VR headset company, achieved success through a Kickstarter campaign and was later acquired by Facebook (now Meta). However, even with the backing of a major technology company, not all ventures into VR have thrived. Google Glass, an attempt at augmented reality, failed due to design issues, usability challenges, and privacy concerns. Similarly, Magic Leap's AR glasses faced problems with a high price tag, limited field of view, and underwhelming image quality.
While simpler approaches to AR, like the smartphone game Pokemon GO, have seen some success, many AR technologies struggle to connect with ordinary users beyond temporary fads or games. Apple's high price point for the Vision Pro may hinder its adoption among consumers. Some suggest that targeting niche markets, such as architects using AR for visualizing buildings, could be a strategy for Apple to gain traction. Microsoft's Hololens, while not widely adopted, has found value in specialist industries like healthcare and engineering.
The success of Apple's mixed-reality glasses will depend on factors such as technological advancements, finding meaningful use cases, and managing user expectations. Training applications using VR have gained traction, but it remains uncertain if such applications alone can sustain a business for Apple. Additionally, Apple faces competition from other players like Magic Leap and Microsoft. Overall, the history of AR and VR suggests that widespread adoption of these technologies has been elusive, and it remains to be seen if Apple's offering will change this trend.