Tag: Vision Pro headset

  • Vision Pro headset’s shock absorbing fan system patented by Apple

    Vision Pro headset’s shock absorbing fan system patented by Apple

    Apple has recently been granted a patent by the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO) for the internal fan system integrated into the Vision Pro headset. This innovative fan system is designed not only to manage airflow within the headset but also to address external impacts, such as accidental drops, providing a protective mechanism for the fan motor system.

    Protective Features of the Fan System

    The patent details the fan system’s protective features, particularly its ability to mitigate the impact of external events like accidental drops. In scenarios where head-mounted display components have limited space between them and lack flexibility, the patented system introduces a novel approach.

    The motor housing, fan hub, and fan blade work together to absorb and disperse the energy generated during an impact event. Figures in the patent illustrate the deformable configuration of the motor hub when subjected to external forces, showcasing the system’s ability to adapt and reduce structural stiffness.

    Enhanced Durability Design

    The fan blade assembly, highlighted in Figure 9 of the patent, reveals a specific design feature aimed at enhancing durability. The fan blade includes a fuse location adjacent to the motor hub, where the cross-section is narrowed or thinned. This strategic design allows the fan blades to deform, twist, squeeze, or separate in response to external forces, contributing to the overall protective function of the fan system.

    Potential Application in the Vision Pro Headset

    The significance of this patented protective fan system lies in its potential application in Apple’s Vision Pro headset, a device geared toward delivering an immersive VR experience. As technology companies continue to invest in VR and augmented reality (AR) innovations, Apple’s emphasis on durability and impact resistance sets its hardware apart.

    While the patent provides insights into the protective features of the Vision Pro headset’s fan system, it remains to be seen when and how Apple will implement this technology in its future extended reality (XR) offerings.

  • Vision Pro headset launch may be earlier than expected, Apple anticipates

    Vision Pro headset launch may be earlier than expected, Apple anticipates

    Apple to Begin Mass Shipments of Vision Pro Headsets in January

    According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is set to start mass shipments of its Vision Pro headsets in the first week of January. Originally slated for an "early 2024" release, there were speculations that the headsets might hit the market in March 2024. However, Kuo's prediction suggests that Apple is now aiming for an earlier launch for the Vision Pro.

    Earlier Than Expected Launch

    The Vision Pro headsets are expected to be available in stores either by the end of January or in early February. This lines up with a report by Mark Gurman, who mentioned that Apple is "ramping up production" and getting ready for a launch in February. Kuo also revealed that Apple plans to ship approximately 500,000 units of the Vision Pro headset in 2024.

    Developer Outreach and Employee Training

    In preparation for the launch, Apple has been reaching out to software developers, urging them to test their apps and get ready for the arrival of the Vision Pro. Additionally, Apple Store employees are undergoing training to effectively showcase and demonstrate the headset to potential buyers.

    No Official Announcement Yet

    Despite the progress being made, Apple has not made any official announcement regarding the release date of the Vision Pro.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Vision Pro headset boasts two high-resolution OLED displays with a total of 23 million pixels. It is powered by the Apple M2 and Apple R1 chips, which provide real-time processing capabilities for seamless performance. The device is equipped with 12 cameras and six microphones and runs on a new operating system called VisionOS.

    Price Tag and Future Plans

    However, the Vision Pro comes with a hefty price tag of $3,499, which may give some potential buyers pause. While rumors of a cheaper version exist, it remains unclear when it might be available.

    Conclusion

    With the increased production and developer preparation, Apple appears to be confident in the success of the Vision Pro, which is set for an early 2024 launch. As more information becomes available, we will keep you updated on any new developments.