At WWDC 2017, Apple took a notable leap forward by introducing its AR Kit software, signaling a strong push into augmented reality (AR). In a chat with Apple CEO Tim Cook, he shared his vision of AR becoming a major product for Apple. Cook highlighted the company’s serious commitment to building a high-quality AR experience, making it clear that AR was a crucial element in Apple’s long-term strategy.
Apple’s introduction of AR Kit was part of a broader strategy to prepare for a future AR device. This device was envisioned to be similar to glasses—unobtrusive and universally acceptable.
Cook’s remarks reflected a vision where the AR ecosystem would be rich with apps by the time the hardware was ready, ensuring a seamless user experience right from the start. This vision underscored Apple’s foresight in building a strong foundation for AR technology through extensive software development.
By 2021, reports of Apple developing VR-like goggles seemed contradictory to Cook’s earlier statements about AR glasses. This discrepancy caused some confusion, as the initial vision was more about subtle, glasses-like AR devices rather than VR headsets.
However, insights from suppliers and manufacturers indicated that creating advanced AR/MR eyeglasses was a complex challenge that would take several more years to overcome. The need for streamlined components and perfected technology underscored the difficulty in achieving this vision promptly.
Amid these developments, Apple decided to launch a more ambitious project, the Vision Pro, as a stepping stone. Although this mixed-reality headset comes with a hefty price tag of $3500 and isn’t selling in large numbers, it represents a significant move in the XR-spatial computing arena. The Vision Pro serves as a crucial experimental platform, helping Apple refine its technology and approach to AR/MR.
The Vision Pro has also played an essential role in raising awareness and interest in XR and spatial computing among both businesses and consumers. Through free demos at Apple stores, millions have been introduced to the possibilities of an XR-spatial computing future.
While the Vision Pro may not be the ultimate product to popularize AR/MR, it is instrumental in establishing Apple’s presence and laying the groundwork for future advancements in this space.