As reported by The Information’s Wayne Ma, Vision Pro is still a developmental product and we might see some more features in addition to what Apple showed on stage when the headset launches next year.
Vision Pro missing features
As per Wayne Ma, Apple developed advanced health and fitness-related features for Vision Pro like support for the Tai Chi app that would help users using Vision Pro’s array of cameras. Similarly, Apple also worked on a feature that would measure users’ breathing using downward-facing cameras by observing their chest and torso. Surprisingly, Apple also had plans for full body tracking using Vision Pro. In fact, it is one of the reasons why Apple added downward-facing cameras on the device. The developers and tech reviewers who have received hands-on on Vision Pro at WWDC praised Apple’s eye tracking mechanism. We can only imagine how the unlimited possibilities that Vision Pro would come with if it features full body tracking capabilities. Apple has informed developers that full-body tracking will not be available when Vision Pro launches next year. Wayne cited screenshots of an Apple-hosted Slack conversation following the Vision Pro launch event for this information. When it comes to missing features, Apple also talked about 3D games on the headset internally. The company’s App Store head, Phil Schiller wanted Vision Pro to focus more on gaming but the idea didn’t pan out. The lack of controllers could be one of the reasons why Apple killed 3D gaming on Vision Pro. The Information writes: “At one point, though, Apple planned many more fitness and wellness applications for the headset, according to former employees who worked on the device. Some employees discussed collaborations with brands such as Nike for working out with the headset, while others investigated face cushions that were better suited for sweaty, high-intensity workouts, said one of the people. One proposal even involved wearing and interacting with content on the Vision Pro while on a stationary bike, a former employee said.” The paywalled article contains several new details about the features that Apple’s Vision Pro headset could bring to the table but the company decided to call them off.
