(Credit: Apple)
The Apple Vision Pro is now available in stores across mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, the first time it's been on shelves outside the US since its February debut.
Apple also started taking preorders for the headset today in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK ahead of a July 12 launch.
The product has received mixed reviews since its launch in the US, with questions raised about the hefty $3,500 price tag and some buyers saying it's too heavy. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, sales have fallen sharply beyond expectations, and Apple cut its 2024 shipment forecasts.
Not surprisingly, Apple has a sunnier outlook. "The enthusiasm for Apple Vision Pro has been extraordinary, and we are thrilled to introduce the magic of spatial computing to more customers around the world," CEO Tim Cook said in a statement.
Recent rumors suggest Apple is skipping a second-gen Vision Pro to focus on a cheaper version that will help it beta compete with Meta's VR offerings. The version could come in around $1,500, though The Information reports that Apple is struggling to cut the price without significantly diminishing the user experience.
For now, Apple will release the first major update for mixed-reality headset, visionOS 2, this fall. This update includes new gestures for easy navigation, the ability to create spatial photos from your 2D images, and support for SharePlay in Photos, among other things.