The Lens: Apple introduces Vision Pro AR headset

Analysts lauded Apple’s Vision Pro last Tuesday for its impressive technology but warned that it would be a few years before the US$3,499 augmented reality headset sees widespread adoption.

The device, which investors treated with a lukewarm reception, marked the company’s first new product line since the launch of the Apple Watch nearly a decade ago.

Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said it could spark the dawn of “spatial computing”, where digital content blends with the physical world, just like how the iPhone changed the world of mobiles.

That vision, analysts said, could take some time to materialise because the high price tag will likely dissuade most buyers, and the product does not have any clear use beyond entertainment.

“Apple proved they have a vision for the role AR technology could play for consumers ... and Vision Pro looked sleek and performed with clear potential,” analysts at Morgan Stanley said.

“However, the Vision Pro is not ready for mass consumption,” they added, noting the bulky external battery pack and the lack of a “killer app”, among other issues.

KGI Securities analyst Christine Wang said she expected shipments of 200,000 in the first year, while Credit Suisse predicted the number could surpass one million.

Apple sold more than 1.4 million iPhones in its first year, garnering US$630 million in sales.

Still, several analysts believe the company has created a “no lose” situation by moving into AR.

James Cordwell of Atlantic Equities said, “if the device were to drive a platform shift from mobile to AR, Apple has positioned itself to extend its leadership from the smartphone era to that new epoch.”

“If it fails to gain traction, it will most likely be because VR/AR is a technological dead end, thus extending the dominance of the smartphone as the primary consumer device.”

Reuters

• Why may analysts be sceptical about sales of the Vision Pro?

• Do you think VR/AR is a “technological dead end”? Explain your reasoning.

Rhea Saxena, King George V School

The Canadian government recently announced it would require warning labels on individual cigarettes to discourage people from smoking. This move is mandatory for all brands which produce and sell cigarettes in Canada and will be compulsory by 2025.

However, this is a short-term strategy, and people will quickly tune out these messages.

Furthermore, this policy fails to address the use of e-cigarettes, since these measures only apply to traditional tobacco products. Young people are more likely to vape and smoke e-cigarettes, so it is much more important to concentrate on these methods.

Some mistakenly believe vaping is healthier than smoking a regular cigarette, which isn’t true. The government should instead turn its focus to educating the public on the dangers of electronic cigarettes.

Many countries have tried different strategies to discourage smoking, including introducing age restrictions and requiring graphic imagery on packaging to show the long-term effects of tobacco use. But these strategies are ultimately ineffective and easy to disregard. Most people who smoke already know the negative side effects and will ignore such warnings.

A more effective way to encourage people to quit the habit would be to offer incentives for people who successfully stop smoking.

The Canadian government could also support groups where smokers could work through their addictions with others and receive personalised programmes based on their needs. Although it would cost money, it would ensure that people get the help they need and prove the country cares about its citizens’ well-being.

The Lens: Canada will be first country where warning labels appear on individual cigarettes