All articles tagged with #headset
Apple's Vision Pro headset has underperformed with weak sales leading to production cuts, highlighting the company's ongoing reliance on the iPhone and challenges in developing a new blockbuster product. Despite its high valuation, Apple faces risks as it struggles to innovate beyond its core product.
Apple has reportedly cut production and marketing of its Vision Pro headset due to poor sales, with estimates suggesting only 45,000 units sold last quarter. The high price, limited app ecosystem, and user discomfort have contributed to its underwhelming performance, leading Apple to shift focus towards AI-enabled devices and away from virtual reality headsets.
Apple's Vision Pro headset has been updated with the M5 chip, offering improved performance, higher refresh rate, more pixels, and longer battery life compared to the original M2 version. Despite hardware similarities, the M5 model is more powerful and efficient, making it suitable for demanding tasks, while the M2 remains a good value for casual users. The update is incremental, with minor enhancements in display and battery, and the choice depends on user needs and budget.
Apple's new Vision Pro version with an M5 chip addresses comfort issues by introducing the Dual Knit Band, which offers better fit and reduced pressure, but the high price and limited content remain barriers to wider adoption. Existing users can upgrade the strap for $99, improving comfort and eye-tracking accuracy, though it doesn't significantly boost sales due to the product's high cost and limited appeal.
Samsung has launched the Galaxy XR, the first Android XR headset, priced at $1,800, featuring high-resolution Micro-OLED displays, advanced cameras, and integration with Google XR experiences, marking a significant step in Android-based virtual reality devices.
Samsung is set to unveil its Android XR headset at the October 21 Galaxy Event, with a full launch expected in 2025. The device will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, advanced displays, eye and hand tracking, and will support 3D photo and video capture on Galaxy phones. Pricing is estimated between $1750 and $2800, positioning it as a premium competitor to Apple Vision Pro, which launches shortly after.
Apple is reportedly working on a new version of its Vision Pro headset, confirmed by a recent FCC filing, which suggests support for Wi-Fi 6 and possibly an M5 processor, with a potential launch as early as this year. The company is also developing a lighter, cheaper Vision 'Air' set for 2027 and smart glasses with voice and gesture controls.
A new Apple Vision Pro headset has appeared on the FCC website, indicating an upcoming release with potential upgrades like the M5 chip and Thread radio for smart home integration, though official details are yet to be announced.
Sony has expanded its Inzone gaming line with new products including a flagship wireless headset, wired earbuds, a gaming keyboard, a gaming mouse, and mousepads, marking its first entry into PC peripherals. These products, developed with professional gamers, feature advanced noise cancellation, customizable settings, and high-performance specs, and are available for pre-order with shipments starting in September.
Sony has launched a new line of high-end PC gaming peripherals under its InZone brand, including headsets, a keyboard, a wireless mouse, and mousepads, developed with esports organization Fnatic, aiming to compete with established brands like SteelSeries, Razer, and Logitech, though at premium prices.
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple plans to release a cheaper, lighter version of its Vision Pro headset called Apple Vision Air in 2027, along with a Mac-tethered headset and a next-generation Vision Pro in 2028. The company is also working on smart glasses expected to launch in late 2026 or 2027, and has canceled earlier AR glasses plans, focusing instead on true AR glasses with microLED displays expected around 2028. These developments suggest Apple is steadily advancing its mixed reality and AR product lineup, though timelines and details remain uncertain.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon, the new principal owner of the Colts, wears a headset during games to stay closely involved and understand the complexities of football operations, emphasizing her commitment to making informed decisions and avoiding costly mistakes.
The PlayStation Pulse Elite headset, Sony's flagship wireless model, is currently on sale for $129.99 at Walmart as part of an early Black Friday deal, marking its lowest price yet. Launched in late 2023, the headset features a retractable boom mic, low latency, lossless audio, and compatibility with PlayStation 5, PC, and Mac via a PlayStation Link USB adapter. It also supports Bluetooth for mobile devices and uses planar magnetic drivers for superior sound quality.
Apple CEO Tim Cook revealed that he uses the Vision Pro headset daily, emphasizing its integration into various aspects of life, including entertainment and productivity. He highlighted the immersive 3D experience, ease of use, and advanced features, urging potential customers to try a demo. The Vision Pro, which has garnered significant attention, is now available outside the U.S., with demand expected to rise.
Apple is targeting the enterprise market with its Vision Pro AR/VR headset, priced at $3,500, aiming to entice large businesses to purchase in bulk and boost overall sales. The headset offers interactive augmented reality functionality for various enterprise use cases, such as training, equipment servicing, and business performance analysis. While facing competition from Meta's Meta Quest line, Apple's focus on enterprise applications and its seamless integration with other Apple devices could give the Vision Pro a sales boost, with its uptake likely to be revealed during Apple's upcoming second quarter earnings announcement.