Vision Pro secondary head strap could be sold as an optional accessory

One aspect of the Vision Pro headset that Apple chose to skip around during its launch is the weight of the headset, which is reported to be close to 1-pound. During the launch video, one screen grab showed the headset fitted with an overhead strap not shown elsewhere during its unveiling. This is said to be optional and designed to help with making the Vision Pro more comfortable to wear for longer sessions. A fresh report from Bloomberg, however, suggests that Apple is mulling whether to include this strap in the box, or sell it as a separate accessory.

According to Bloomberg, now that the Vision Pro is in wider use following its launch, users are reporting that it becomes quite uncomfortable after a couple of hours of continuous use. This would suggest that the overhead strap should be a mandatory inclusion in the box, especially considering its $3,499 starting price. Given that the strap looks quite ungainly when fitted to the Vision Pro, one can only surmise Apple does not want to include it in the box as it looks a lot less “elegant” when fitted. It would also add to the complexity of wearing the device, which is meant to be quickly and easily put on and worn – especially if the company wants to drive uptake of its latest gadget.

Another gremlin reported by early wearers of the device includes the feeling of motion sickness. Motion sickness is a common side effect for some people when wearing AR/VR headsets, but it doesn’t appear that Apple’s high-tech approach has been able to eliminate this yet. The Bloomberg report also goes on to suggest that Apple is still a long way from finalizing the software for the Vision Pro. When the device was demonstrated to invitees at the launch event, users were given a very limited and directed 30-minute demo with the device. This is said to be because features like in-air typing and other UI elements are still not finished.

The Apple Vision Pro will launch “early” in 2024 for $3499, but don’t be surprised if the overhead strap is sold separately when it eventually lands.

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