Can Apple See the Future? Mixed Reality Gamble Begins in January
Previous media reports have indicated that suppliers of the Apple Vision Pro are currently operating at full capacity to meet the shipment targets for this device, and it is also stated that the Apple Vision Pro will begin shipping in February next year. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently issued a detailed forecast regarding this device.
Kuo announced that the Apple Vision Pro is slated to begin mass shipments in the first week of January next year, with the first batch of products expected to arrive between late January and early February. This timeline aligns closely with the earlier predictions made by Mark Gurman. However, Kuo estimates the shipment volume of the Apple Vision Pro at only 500,000 units, yet he still considers it to be one of Apple’s most pivotal products for 2024. He notes that if the Apple Vision Pro can offer a positive user experience, it could significantly propel the development of the mixed reality industry.
In contrast, previous estimates by Jiemian projected the shipment volume of Apple Vision Pro to be around 1 million units, twice the amount predicted by Kuo. Jiemian anticipates that the shipment volume could reach 400,000 units at launch, with a total of 1 million units by the end of 2024.
Regardless, positive user feedback will likely heighten market interest in this product and the broader mixed reality field. This might also explain why Apple is keen on designing a headset training program for its retail employees. The training, expected to commence in January and span two days, will educate employees on how to engage with customers and guide them in trying out the Apple Vision Pro, assisting customers in wearing the device correctly to ensure a comfortable experience for potential users.
However, the hefty price tag of $3,499 places the Apple Vision Pro at a high entry barrier. Additionally, the device is exclusively available through official Apple channels, with no apparent intention from Apple to expand its distribution networks.
