Apple is preparing to expand its advanced augmented reality headset, Apple Vision Pro, beyond the United States. Currently, the headset is only available in the US, but Apple plans an international rollout later in 2024. Although no official date has been given, recent updates to the Vision Pro software hint at these plans.
New Language Support for Global Expansion
Recent code updates discovered by MacRumors suggest that Apple is working on adding a virtual keyboard for the Vision Pro that supports 12 new languages. Currently, the headset’s keyboard only supports English (US) and Emoji. The new languages will include:
- Cantonese (Traditional)
- Chinese (Simplified)
- English (Australia)
- English (Canada)
- English (Japan)
- English (Singapore)
- English (UK)
- French (Canada)
- French (France)
- German (Germany)
- Japanese
- Korean
This language expansion suggests that Apple is preparing to introduce the Vision Pro to new countries, including Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, and South Korea.
Analyst Insights
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Apple’s initial US-only release aimed to ensure a smooth sales process, as the Vision Pro requires buyers to find their ideal fit and prescription lenses. However, Apple plans to expand availability before the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2024 to engage more developers with the upcoming visionOS 2 update. WWDC typically takes place in June, so the international rollout is expected before then.
Vision Pro Details
In the US, the Vision Pro has been available since February 2, priced at $3,499. This headset marks Apple’s entry into wearable headsets, offering an immersive mixed reality experience with features like:
- High-resolution 4K micro OLED displays with a total of 23 million pixels.
- Eye and gesture tracking for intuitive navigation.
- Twelve cameras for capturing 3D photos and videos.
- Built-in spatial audio for a realistic soundscape.
- Optic ID iris scanning for secure authentication.
- The visionOS operating system designed for spatial computing.
- An external battery to extend the 2-hour battery life.
The Apple Vision Pro combines cutting-edge features with a sleek design, representing a significant advancement in VR technology.