Apple Inc. is gearing up for the February launch of its highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro, with units already shipping to U.S. distribution warehouses and retail employees undergoing intensive training. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, in his latest Power On newsletter, the tech giant is preparing for an imminent official announcement, possibly overshadowing product news from CES 2024.
The Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3499+, is slated to be initially available exclusively in the United States. Gurman notes that China, Canada, and the UK are being considered for the first international rollout later in 2024.
Apple stores are already preparing for the launch of the headset, with employees undergoing special training sessions. Some employees have been reportedly flown to Apple Park in Cupertino for specialized training on the undisclosed product, which is believed to be the Vision Pro. These employees will then return to their respective Apple Stores to impart their knowledge and assist customers in-store.
Gurman reports that Apple has scheduled extended retail training sessions for the week of January 21, with additional three-hour meetings for all employees, an unusual move for the company. The stores are also updating their backroom gear and getting new inventory racks in preparation for the product's arrival. This comprehensive preparation indicates a significant commitment from Apple to ensure a smooth rollout of the mixed reality headset.
Despite the excitement surrounding the launch of the Vision Pro, Gurman suggests that it might not be a significant revenue driver for Apple immediately due to its hefty price tag and the limited initial return on investment.
He notes, "Wall Street might fret over the limited initial return on investment from the Vision Pro mixed reality headset. Consumers may be unhappy about the range of uses for the device, as well as its perplexing design and weight. And developers may stay away given the small market."
As Apple prepares for this groundbreaking launch, the industry watches closely, anticipating how the Vision Pro will influence the tech landscape and whether it will live up to the high expectations set by both the company and consumers. With the February launch on the horizon, the Apple Vision Pro is poised to be the tech giant's first new product category in nearly a decade, marking a significant moment in Apple's innovative journey.
