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| Image: Gizmochina |
Apple to Prioritize Vision Pro and Wearables over iPhone in 2024
In 2024, Apple is set to shift its focus towards wearable devices, moving away from its traditional emphasis on the iPhone, as reported by Mark Gurman in his “Power On” newsletter. While the iPhone will continue to receive upgrades, there won’t be significant design changes. The iPhone 15’s design will be retained, with the Pro models getting larger screens and the regular models inheriting the Action button.
Apple’s Wearable Strategy: Diversifying Beyond the Smartphone
The spotlight will be on the Apple Watch, which is expected to receive a significant redesign, marking a departure from its consistent design language since its inception. Apple's strategic shift towards wearables aligns with the growing demand for health and fitness tracking devices. The Apple Watch is poised to play a central role in this strategy, with the introduction of essential health features such as blood pressure and sleep apnea monitoring.
Reports suggest that Apple is working on upgrading the Apple Watch Ultra’s display to a thinner and more power-efficient MicroLED panel. This upgrade aims to increase the screen size to 2.12 inches, providing users with a more immersive experience. However, due to production challenges, this enhancement is expected to debut in 2026.
Furthermore, the AirPods 4 are in the pipeline, featuring a refreshed design, a USB-C port, and active noise cancellation. Apple's decision to offer both budget-friendly and premium versions of the AirPods 4 demonstrates a commitment to catering to a diverse consumer base. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that certain features, like noise cancellation, might be exclusive to the higher-end model. Additionally, the AirPods Max could see updates such as USB-C charging and new color options, enhancing the overall user experience.
Vision Pro: A Leap into the Future
However, the standout product in Apple‘s lineup for 2024 is the Vision Pro. Despite being a first-generation product, Vision Pro has already demonstrated a remarkable way to engage with the world through virtual headsets. In a market where VR headsets have been available for a few years, with companies like Meta leading the way, Vision Pro distinguishes itself by showcasing the untapped potential of virtual reality technology. It is poised to become the go-to choice for professional use, marking a significant innovation for Apple.
One of the remarkable aspects of the Vision Pro is its price point. Priced at $3,499, it positions itself as a premium device. The micro-OLED display with a resolution exceeding 4K for each eye ensures a stunning visual experience. The device's design, featuring a comfortable fabric-lined headset and strap with a modular design, is tailored to accommodate different face and head shapes, prioritizing user comfort.
Notably, the Vision Pro comes with an external battery that provides an extra two hours of battery life, addressing a common concern with VR headsets. The device is powered by the M2 chip and a new R1 processor, showcasing Apple's dedication to pushing the boundaries of hardware capabilities. Operating on the visionOS, the Vision Pro offers a seamless and immersive virtual reality experience.
Despite being a first-generation product, the Vision Pro's potential for professional use is evident. Apple's track record with products like AirPods and the Apple Watch, which started as niche products and eventually became mainstream, indicates that the Vision Pro could follow a similar trajectory. Although it may take some time to fully flourish, the Vision Pro is expected to generate substantial profits for Apple, further diversifying its product portfolio.
Additionally, there are rumors circulating about Apple developing a more budget-friendly alternative to the Vision Pro headset. This potential move aligns with Apple's strategy of offering a range of products to cater to different consumer segments. If realized, this budget-friendly option could make virtual reality more accessible to a broader audience, expanding the reach of this groundbreaking technology.
