Apple’s Vision Pro has been available for over half a year. Despite an initial wave of excitement and viral hype surrounding its launch, the current conversation around Vision Pro is not very positive. The device’s alleged sales difficulties are often highlighted, as is the lack of compelling apps and content. It’s too early to call Vision Pro a success or a flop, but as we mark the sixth month, I want to explore what the device’s success ultimately depends on. And I think it all boils down to Apple’s own words: “spatial computer.”

Vision Pro is not a VR headset, but a “spatial computer”

In the run-up to the Vision Pro’s unveiling at WWDC 2023, there was huge anticipation for this VR/AR headset.

When Apple introduces a new product category, it usually offers something unique. But aside from creating an ultra-premium headset, it was unclear how Apple would differentiate the Vision Pro from the headsets of its predecessors.

But the answer in the introduction was very clear: “Spatial Computing”.

Apple has consistently claimed that Vision Pro was a “spatial computer.” They didn’t call it a VR, AR, or mixed reality headset. It was a computer.

After six months, I expect these words to be decisive for Vision Pro.

Costs are a problem, but there is a bigger core problem

When experts consider the Vision Pro’s market challenges, the focus is often on its $3,500 price tag.

It is as if the Vision Pro would would be a hit if Apple would only make it more affordable, say in the $1,000-$1,500 range.

However, I don’t think cost is the main problem with Vision Pro. It’s about spatial computing.

Yes, the device needs to be more affordable. Apple obviously knows this, as it is making a point of making a cheaper Vision device rather than a Vision Pro 2.

To be truly successful, however, Apple must prove that the Vision Pro is actually a computer – and one that performs computing tasks better than conventional alternatives.

Creating a better computer for more people

For many potential customers, Vision Pro is currently not only an overpriced gadget, but also a device without a convincing purpose.

Where it continues to impress is with media. Immersive video is absolutely incredible. Reliving memories through spatial video is just as amazing. Heck, the Vision Pro is even great at watching standard video and looking at standard photos.

As a device for consuming media, the Vision Pro is largely successful (at least if you ignore gaming).

However, this is not the reason for its existence, nor is it Apple’s main marketing method.

$3,500 is a lot for a content consumption device.

But what if the Vision Pro was a powerful computer that could do real work?

What if your daily work with Vision Pro was a much more exciting experience than with a Mac or iPad?

I firmly believe that some people can do their jobs today with a Vision Pro. But most can’t. And even for those who can, is spatial computing a game-changer for them? I’m skeptical.

Many Vision Pro users love Mac Virtual Display. However, this feature makes Vision Pro a Mac accessory, not a Mac replacement.

The market for $3,500 Mac accessories is very small.

But the market for next-generation immersive computers could be significant.

Is spatial computing a gimmick or the future?

Apple is taking small steps to make Vision Pro a better computer. For example, there are several visionOS 2 features aimed at improving productivity.

But there is still so much to do.

It’s early days. I’m convinced Apple will stick with the Vision platform for the long term, but its success will depend on whether the company achieves its original goal: to create a real computer.

If spatial computing is just a gimmick, Vision Pro will fail.

But if it is the future, then I hope that future will not be too long in coming.

What do you think? Can Apple deliver on the promise of spatial computing? Let us know in the comments.