Apple’s Vision Pro, its first foray into virtual and augmented reality headsets, will finally be available for purchase starting February 2nd. Preorders are already open, with the full retail pricing now revealed. As expected, this cutting-edge device does not come cheap.
Preorder Pricing and Availability
The base model Vision Pro with 128GB of storage is priced at $1799. Upgrades to 256GB or 512GB of storage add $200 or $400 to the cost, respectively [1]. With tax, the maximum price tops out at around $2399 for the high capacity 512GB version.
Vision Pro preorders opened on January 19th through Apple’s website, with units shipping on February 2nd [2]. Demand is expected to far outweigh supply for the revolutionary device. Most customers able to score a preorder unit in the first wave won’t receive their headset until March at the earliest [3].
| Storage | Price |
|---|---|
| 128GB | $1799 |
| 256GB | $1999 |
| 512GB | $2199 |
Cutting-Edge Features
So what does almost $2,400 get you in the Vision Pro? As Tim Cook tweeted, it’s Apple’s “most advanced device ever” packed full of pioneering features [4].
The headset combines both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) capabilities with incredibly crisp visuals. Dual 4K OLED microdisplays output video at up to 60 frames per second, with a 140-degree extended field of view to fill almost your entire range of vision [5].
Integrated inside-out tracking means no external accessories are required. The Vision Pro maps its environment in real-time using an array of cameras and sensors around the device. Hand gesture and eye tracking give intuitive options for navigating virtual worlds. Spatial audio creates the illusion of true 3D sound.
Apple developed the extremely powerful Vision Pro Chip to run all these complex features. Performance should meet or exceed even a Mac-class computer [6]. Gaming and creative applications will be able to tap into capabilities far beyond current standards.
Risky Repair Costs
Unfortunately, groundbreaking technology comes with added risk. Due to its compact integrated design packed full of custom silicon and displays, the Vision Pro is incredibly difficult to repair.
Costs for out-of-warranty service range from $549 for more basic repairs up to a jaw-dropping $2399 to replace critical components [7]. This approaches the price of an entirely new headset!
Apple does offer extended AppleCare+ coverage for $499 to soften the blow. With AppleCare+, repairs run $99 for the headset itself or $49 for the controllers [8]. Still, handling the Vision Pro carefully is strongly advised.
| Repair Type | Out of Warranty | With AppleCare+ |
|---|---|---|
| Headset | $549-$2399 | $99 |
| Controllers | $219 | $49 |
Many fans have expressed disappointment that only 128GB base storage was included given the extreme costs [9]. More generous storage really should be standard for a premium device approaching the price of a Mac.
What Happens Next?
Now that Apple has made its grand entrance to VR and AR tech, where does it go from here? Most analysts predict Vision Pro is just the first step towards Apple’s bigger ambitions in this market.
Future generations will likely see more approachable pricing, slimmer hardware, and even more advanced capabilities [10]. Integrating these technologies directly into mobile devices and everyday glasses remains the longer-term goal.
For now, Vision Pro aims to push the envelope and set the bar for immersive mixed reality. Its incredibly steep price limits the potential audience dramatically. But for those eager to experience the cutting edge and willing to pay a premium, Apple again delivers an iconic device showcasing technological leadership. The Vision revolution starts February 2nd.
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
