Apple's Vision Pro Faces Sales Struggles, Eyes Sony Partnership for Gaming Boost
December 8, 2024Apple's Vision Pro, its first foray into 'spatial computing,' aims to blend augmented and virtual reality but has faced challenges since its launch in early 2024.
Despite the device's technological potential, with an M2 chip and 16GB of RAM, fewer than 500,000 units have been sold, and many users are not engaging with it as expected.
The Vision Pro's high price and limited game library have hindered its market success, making it more appealing to early adopters rather than the mass market.
CEO Tim Cook has acknowledged that the Vision Pro is targeted at a niche audience, reflecting its premium positioning and current sales performance.
A significant issue is the lack of traditional controller support, which complicates the adaptation of existing applications from other mixed reality platforms.
Although Apple has developed a precise control tool resembling an Apple Pencil, it has not announced plans for a dedicated gaming controller for the Vision Pro.
In response to these challenges, Apple is in talks with Sony to support PSVR 2 controllers, which could enhance gaming capabilities for the Vision Pro.
While this collaboration may indicate Apple's recognition of the Vision Pro's challenges, it remains uncertain if it will significantly boost development for the platform.
Ongoing discussions with game developers aim to expand the Vision Pro's game library, but the current content pipeline appears unpromising.
Developers are hesitant to invest in games for the Vision Pro due to its small user base and competition from devices like Meta's Quest series, which offer exclusive gaming content.
Reports suggest Apple may be scaling back production of the Vision Pro due to low demand, raising questions about the device's future.
Speculation exists that the partnership with Sony could signal a larger gaming alliance, potentially impacting their competitive stance against companies like Microsoft.
Summary based on 41 sources
Get a daily email with more Tech stories
Sources
The Verge • Dec 8, 2024
Apple and Sony are working on Vision Pro support for PSVR2 controllersTechCrunch • Dec 8, 2024
Apple’s Vision Pro might add support for PlayStation VR controllers | TechCrunchBusiness Insider • Dec 9, 2024
Will Sony controllers help Apple sell more Vision Pros?