Vision Pro last-minute details, and big changes coming to Apple Watch! (CultCast #630)
Jan 19, 2024
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Supreme Court's ruling on Apple's anti-steering rule, implications for third-party developers; Apple Vision Pro challenges and potential; Creative ways to repurpose old iPhones; Storage systems and DIY HomePod
01:27:06
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Quick takeaways
Apple must allow third-party iPhone app developers to point customers to their websites when making purchases, leading to a major change in the App Store.
Apple is appealing a recent decision that banned the blood oxygen feature in the latest Apple Watch models, while temporarily disabling the feature and redirecting customers to the health app for more information.
Although some users experienced discomfort or pain when wearing the Vision Pro headset for extended periods, Apple remains committed to the product and confident in its potential success.
Deep dives
Limited production of Apple's Vision Pro, sellout expected
Apple is expected to only produce up to 80,000 units of the Vision Pro for launch, with a sellout anticipated. The Vision Pro demo, which lasts about 25 minutes, will showcase various features and capabilities of the headset, including 3D and immersive movies, spatial photos, and productivity tools. However, reports have emerged that some users experienced discomfort or pain when wearing the headset for extended periods. Despite the limited release and potential challenges, Apple remains committed to the product and is confident in its potential success.
Apple appeals decision to ban blood oxygen feature in Apple Watch
Apple is appealing a recent decision that banned the blood oxygen feature in the latest Apple Watch models. The ban resulted from a patent dispute with the companies Masimo and Cercator, and Apple believes that the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit should reverse the decision. Meanwhile, Apple has temporarily disabled the blood oxygen feature in new sales of the Apple Watch, redirecting customers to the health app for more information.
Apple schedules 25-minute demo for Vision Pro
Apple has designed a 25-minute demo for the Vision Pro, showcasing various aspects of the headset's capabilities. Customers will have the opportunity to try on the device and experience features such as spatial photos, a virtual keyboard, and immersive movies. However, reports suggest that the virtual keyboard experience is subpar, requiring users to type by poking each key individually. Despite some challenges, the demo aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Vision Pro's potential and encourage customers to consider the headset.
Some users report discomfort when wearing Vision Pro
Several journalists who had the opportunity to try the Vision Pro reported experiencing discomfort or even pain after wearing the headset for short periods. While many praised the capabilities and features of the device, some users felt weighed down by the headset and even developed headaches or tension. Apple may need to address these comfort issues to ensure a more pleasant and ergonomic experience for users.
Repurposing Old iPhones
There are several creative ways to repurpose old iPhones. One option is to turn the iPhone into a DIY HomePod by using inexpensive wireless speakers. Another possibility is to use the old iPhone as a secondary camera for security purposes or as a webcam. Additionally, older iPhones allow access to apps that may no longer be available on newer devices, making it possible to revisit old favorites and download previously purchased apps. Jailbreaking older iPhones is also relatively easy and opens up possibilities for customizations and tweaks.
Availability and Speculations on the Vision Pro
The availability and demand for Apple's Vision Pro headset remains uncertain. It is speculated that the delivery time for the Vision Pro may range from one to three months due to the high price point and limited supply. There is anticipation that the device will attract a global market, including individuals who purchase the headset to resell or to acquire it when it is not available in their country. The podcast hosts also discussed the potential use of the Vision Pro during family and social situations and how the design may contribute to feelings of alienation and isolation. The delivery time for the Vision Pro will be closely monitored to assess demand and availability.
This week: The Supreme Court is forcing big changes on the App Store, we have Apple’s Plan B to keep selling Apple Watches, last-minute Vision Pro details (are we ordering one?) and finally, 9 cool things you can do with an old iPhone!
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The U.S. Supreme Court effectively upheld a lower court’s ruling that Apple must allow third-party iPhone app developers to point customers to their websites when making purchases. This means the company is forced to drop its “anti-steering” rule for such applications — a major change.
Apple Inc. is facing one of the toughest marketing challenges in its history: pitching customers on a $3,499 headset with limited battery life, an unwieldy design and no killer app.
