Apple’s recent unveiling of VisionOS and the Vision Pro headset has sparked curiosity about the company’s direction in the emerging field of spatial computing. Unlike the more familiar terms—virtual, augmented, mixed, or extended reality (VR, AR, XR, or MR)—Apple is steering towards a broader and more integrated approach known as “spatial computing.”
The concept of spatial computing, though not originally coined by Apple, was introduced by MIT graduate Simon Greenwold. It refers to the interaction between humans and machines in a way that allows the machine to interpret and manipulate real-world objects and spaces. Apple’s vision for its upcoming Vision devices is to create a comprehensive computing platform that transcends the typical boundaries of transient devices.
A closer look at how Apple advises developers to name their apps for the App Store offers insight into this vision. Apple discourages the use of terms like VR, AR, XR, or MR, instead urging developers to describe their products as “spatial computing experiences” or “Vision apps.” This subtle shift in language reflects Apple’s intent to push beyond immersive experiences and build a platform with robust computing capabilities.
Early signs suggest that this approach is resonating, particularly among enterprise-focused developers. For instance, companies like the Omni Group are already planning Vision-enabled apps geared towards project management, signaling the potential for these devices to be used in professional settings.
Apple’s VisionOS isn’t just about entertainment or gaming; it’s designed to unlock the full potential of spatial computing for practical applications. Whether it’s managing complex projects or enabling remote collaboration, Apple aims to make these devices indispensable tools for a wide range of tasks. This ambition mirrors Apple’s past successes, where initial skepticism around new products eventually gave way to widespread adoption as developers discovered their practical uses.
Despite the Vision Pro’s hefty price tag of $3,500, Apple plans to diversify its offerings, making future headsets more affordable as the technology matures and its use cases expand. The combination of wearable, mobile, and presence-based technologies within spatial computing could redefine how we interact with computers.
In business contexts, spatial computing could revolutionize industries by enabling remote troubleshooting of production lines or facilitating collaborative design efforts across continents. Sectors like construction, utilities management, exploration, search and rescue, military, and medicine stand to benefit from the remote presence and on-device computing power that spatial computing offers.
While the success of Apple’s foray into spatial computing is not guaranteed, it’s clear that these devices represent more than just the latest in consumer electronics. They embody a shift towards a new computing paradigm that could have significant implications for businesses across various industries. Just as the iPhone once revolutionized mobile technology, spatial computing could ignite a new wave of digital transformation. The true impact of Apple’s innovation will only become apparent with time, as developers and industries begin to explore its vast potential.
