For many, inflight entertainment is a saving grace, a portal to escape the confines of the cabin. But is Apple's Vision Pro, the tech giant's foray into augmented reality, poised to revolutionize the way we experience entertainment on board? For some I believe that Apple's new device is the saving grace that some people need to escape reality during flight.
Immersive Entertainment
Imagine watching a blockbuster on a virtual screen that dwarfs any airplane seat back display. The Vision Pro promises just that, with its high-resolution display and spatial audio creating a cinematic experience unlike anything offered before. Imagine feeling the roar of a jet engine in a fighter pilot movie, or the crunch of snow beneath your feet in a snowy adventure – all from the comfort of your airplane seat. This immersive quality is undoubtedly a major draw for passengers needing to separate themselves from noisy seatmates or cramped passenger cabins.
Tailored Experiences
The Vision Pro isn't just about passive consumption. Its capabilities extend to interactive experiences, like exploring virtual worlds or participating in educational tours of the destinations you're flying to. This personalized approach could be a boon for families with children, or those seeking more than just movies and TV shows. Even from an airplane seat, you may be able to share the experience of watching a movie or immersed in content at 40,000ft. I know that I sometimes struggle with working on my laptop during a flight due to the screen size and distractions around me. Being able to blow everything up in a virtual world could be that answer!
Challenges to Consider
However, the Vision Pro isn't without its drawbacks. The hefty price tag, currently at $3,499, makes it an exclusive experience for a select few. Additionally, the battery life of 2.5 hours for video playback might not be enough for long flights, requiring frequent charging.
Further, while an individual may not be able to afford this device, it is possible that airlines buy these as devices to hand out on flights. My concern there would be with hygiene of using the device and how it is cleaned between them. It would be a great device for business class passengers, but may not be achievable. There's also the problem of people who wear glasses and needing the special inserts. If the Vision Pro were to become a great travel device, there are a lot of kinks to work out.
Final Thoughts
While the Apple Vision Pro boasts groundbreaking features and immersive experiences, its high cost and limited battery life raise questions about its widespread adoption as the ultimate inflight entertainment device. However, for those seeking a cutting-edge entertainment experience and willing to pay the premium, the Vision Pro offers a glimpse into the future of inflight entertainment.
Ultimately, whether the Vision Pro takes off in the world of inflight entertainment remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: it has sparked a conversation about the possibilities of AR technology in transforming how we travel and experience the world around us, even at 40,000 feet.
