Apple's Vision Pro Struggles in the US

Apple's Vision Pro faces a sharp decline in demand in the US as the lack of compelling applications for the headset becomes apparent. Bloomberg's insider, Mark Gurman, notes that demo zones for Vision Pro in stores often sit empty, with many scheduled demonstrations resulting in no-shows. Sales have plummeted from an average of two units per day to just a few units per week. Gurman suggests that existing Vision Pro enthusiasts have already made their purchases, and attracting new users proves challenging due to the absence of a killer app. He emphasizes that the headset is geared towards solitary experiences rather than collaborative work or social networking. Apple has ramped up marketing efforts on its website, prominently featuring Vision Pro in a banner at the top. The downward trend in Vision Pro demand likely reflects a broader issue plaguing VR technology since its inception: sustaining user engagement once the novelty wears off. Gurman shares his own experience with Apple's headset, noting a decrease in daily usage frequency due to battery connectivity issues, lengthy loading times, and a complex interface that makes traditional devices like laptops and smartphones more appealing for everyday tasks. Apple faces the significant task of transforming Vision Pro into a device that redefines everyday technology use. While some initial VisionOS errors have been rectified, many of Apple's native apps are still not optimized for the headset's operating system. The latest VisionOS update introduces Spatial Personas, allowing multiple users to gather in a virtual room for shared activities like movie viewing, FaceTime calls, and gaming. However, this feature has yet to gain widespread adoption among Vision Pro owners. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple will release fewer than 400,000 headsets in 2024 due to production complexities. Nonetheless, the company is reportedly working on a new, more affordable version of Vision Pro expected to launch by 2025. Some users have reported headaches, neck issues, and under-eye bruising from prolonged headset use. Apple warns that wearing the device for over an hour may lead to neck and back pain, headaches, and eye strain.