Apple’s recent introduction of the Vision Pro headset has generated a lot of excitement, with its potential to revolutionize entertainment and productivity. However, while Apple has highlighted various features such as movie-watching and video capturing capabilities, there is one major application that has been conspicuously absent from their marketing efforts: fitness. According to a report from The Information, Apple had plans to incorporate workout apps into the mixed reality headset, but they weren’t ready in time for its initial reveal in June.
Former Apple employees have revealed that the company explored partnerships with fitness brands like Nike to create dedicated workout experiences for the Vision Pro. Additionally, Apple considered designing specialized face cushions that could withstand sweaty, high-intensity workouts. Furthermore, there were even discussions about allowing Vision Pro wearers to interact with content while using a stationary bike, providing a unique and immersive exercise experience.
Although Apple did allow attendees at its Worldwide Developers Conference to try out a meditation app with the Vision Pro, it seems that the company had several other wellness apps in the pipeline. These included a yoga app that would utilize the headset’s cameras to measure a user’s breathing by observing their chest and torso movements. There was also mention of a tai chi app, expanding the range of fitness activities that could be supported by the Vision Pro.
Considering the demand for fitness experiences in the virtual reality and mixed reality space, it wouldn’t be surprising if Apple is still actively developing these rumored applications. Fitness-focused VR platforms, such as Supernatural, have already gained popularity, demonstrating the potential for engaging and effective workouts in virtual environments. However, the former Apple employees mentioned in The Information’s report suggest that Apple may have hesitated to reveal these features due to certain technical challenges.
One such challenge is the Vision Pro’s external battery pack, which reportedly adds bulk to the headset. This clunky design element may not align with Apple’s sleek and minimalist aesthetic, potentially leading to concerns about user experience. Additionally, the front-facing glass screen of the headset might be considered too fragile to withstand accidental bumps from furniture or walls, posing a risk to the device’s durability and user safety.
Another possible limitation highlighted in The Information’s report is less accurate hand tracking. This could explain why Apple did not showcase any mixed reality-specific games for the Vision Pro during its unveiling. Hand tracking is a crucial aspect of user interaction in mixed reality experiences, and any deficiencies in this area could significantly impact the usability and appeal of the headset for gaming enthusiasts.
Despite these challenges, Apple’s commitment to delivering innovative and intuitive products suggests that they will continue refining and improving the Vision Pro. As they address the technical limitations and concerns associated with fitness applications, it’s possible that Apple will incorporate these features in future iterations or updates of the headset.
In conclusion, while Apple’s Vision Pro headset holds tremendous potential for entertainment and productivity, the company’s current marketing efforts have neglected to emphasize its fitness capabilities. However, reports indicate that Apple had plans to develop workout apps for the headset, including partnerships with fitness brands and specialized features for different exercise activities. Technical challenges, such as the design of the battery pack and concerns about screen fragility, may have contributed to Apple’s decision not to showcase these features during the headset’s initial reveal. Nevertheless, with Apple’s dedication to innovation, it’s likely that they will continue working on fitness applications and address the aforementioned limitations to offer a comprehensive mixed reality experience that caters to users’ diverse needs and interests.