Internal Testing Reveals That the Apple Vision Pro is Too Heavy, Apple Considers a Solution
Sony opted for plastic material in the construction of the WH-100XM4 headphones, weighing 254g, while Apple used premium materials for the AirPods Max, resulting in a weight of 385g.
However, Apple seems to have overlooked this lesson when it comes to the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro “spatial computer,” which is reported to be on the heavier side.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple expanded the number of employees who had access to the Vision Pro headset after its unveiling. Previously, only a select few were privy to the device.
During wider testing, it was discovered that some users found the headset too heavy after a few hours of continuous use. While the exact weight remains unknown as Apple never released an official figure, the headset incorporates premium materials like aluminum and glass, setting it apart from other XR headsets that use plastic.
To address the weight issue, Apple has a solution in the form of a strap that goes over the user’s head and helps distribute the weight. However, it is reported that this strap will not be included in the retail package as it is deemed non-essential.
Considering the starting price of $3,500 for the Apple Vision Pro, one would expect that a simple strap should not add much to the cost. Nonetheless, Apple’s pricing practices have been known to surprise, such as the exorbitant charges for Mac Pro wheels.
Additionally, it is anticipated that the Vision Pro’s optional extras will include corrective lenses from Zeiss, catering to users who require glasses. With the headset slated for release “early next year,” Apple still has time to reconsider what should be considered essential for the product.
