Zuckerberg Thinks Apple’s Vision Pro is Too Expensive
Meta CEO Comments on Apple’s Vision Pro XR Headset
During a recent company-wide meeting, Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta Platforms Inc. (META), commented on Apple Inc.’s (AAPL) newly announced Vision Pro XR headset. Zuckerberg shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated device but criticized its $3,499 price tag, claiming it to be too expensive for many users.
Apple’s Entry into the AR/VR Market
Apple’s foray into the augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) market is seen as a significant move in the industry. The release of their first-generation mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, is expected to bring a “certain level of validation” to this growing market segment. However, according to Zuckerberg, its high price could deter potential customers from trying the technology.
No Magical Solutions from Apple
Despite acknowledging that Apple has included many impressive features and technologies in their headset, such as higher resolution displays and powerful processors, Zuckerberg does not believe that their product offers any “magical” solutions that Meta hasn’t already explored. He explained:
“From what I’ve seen initially, I’d say the good news is that there’s no kind of magical solutions that they have to any of the constraints on laws of physics that our teams haven’t already explored and thought of.”
Comparing Quest 3 and Vision Pro Headsets
Meta’s Quest 3 VR headset has been praised for providing an affordable yet powerful option for users interested in experiencing AR, VR, and MR technologies. As compared to Apple’s Vision Pro headset, which costs seven times more because it requires additional energy consumption due to its high-resolution screen and wired battery connection, Meta has made a conscious effort to innovate their devices with accessibility and affordability in mind.
Zuckerberg expressed satisfaction with the company’s vision for creating a social and active experience for users, contrasting it with Apple’s demos, which mostly displayed users sitting on a couch by themselves.
“…our vision for the metaverse and presence is fundamentally social. It’s about people interacting in new ways and feeling closer in new ways. Our device is also about being active and doing things.”
Increased Demand for Mixed Reality Devices
Both Meta and Apple entering the AR/VR/MR market can potentially enhance overall demand as more people become aware of these new technologies and platforms. Zuckerberg believes that Apple’s entry might lead consumers to explore more affordable options like the Quest 3 headset.
The Importance of Affordability in the AR/VR Market
Innovation and affordability have been among Meta’s key priorities, aiming to make their products accessible to a wider audience rather than catering solely to an elite or wealthy crowd. The Quest 3 headset is currently retailing at $499, which is a significantly lower price than Apple’s Vision Pro.
Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of offering advanced technology at affordable prices, acknowledging that while he hasn’t tried the Apple Vision Pro headset yet, its price could be disadvantageous to Apple but advantageously positioned for other AR/VR headset makers like Meta.
“In a lot of ways, mixed reality in Quest 3 is even better and more advanced level than what we were able to deliver in Quest Pro,”
As companies like Meta and Apple compete within the AR/VR/MR industry, accessibility and affordability will likely remain central considerations for future product development.