Apple’s highly anticipated mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, is set to hit the market on February 2, and the sticker shock is real. While the starting price for the Vision Pro is $3,499 with 256GB of storage, Apple is offering higher-tier options for those seeking more space. The 512GB version comes in at $3,699, while the 1TB version is priced at $3,899. The absence of an international release date complicates the conversion, but the starting price roughly translates to £2,750 or AU$5,300, excluding tax.
As the cost of the headset is unveiled, so are the additional expenses. AppleCare Plus, the protection plan against accidental damage, is a prudent choice for a device of this magnitude, and it adds another $499 to the total. Surprisingly, Apple doesn’t include a travel case with the Vision Pro, leaving users to purchase it separately for $199. If you want a solution for carrying the battery pack, Belkin offers a clip-on battery holder at an additional cost of $50.
Considering the device’s estimated usage time of two to two-and-a-half hours, extra batteries priced at $199 each might be a practical investment. Moreover, for those who wear glasses, the Vision Pro necessitates lens inserts made by Zeiss, with reader versions priced at $99 and prescription versions at $149.
When you factor in all these add-ons, the total cost of the Vision Pro experience could skyrocket to as much as $4,995. While it’s not mandatory to purchase every accessory, it serves as a stark reminder that Apple’s latest innovation comes with a hefty price tag. While we await a detailed review of the Vision Pro, you can delve into my latest demo experience in the meantime.
