After two weeks on the market, the Apple Vision Pro has seen mixed reactions, with some early adopters returning the $3,499 headset and seeking refunds.
In his latest Power On column at Bloomberg, Mark Gurman explores the reasons behind these returns and sheds light on the underlying issues.
Return Rate Analysis
Mark Gurman observes that despite the initial excitement, a significant number of Vision Pro buyers have opted to return their devices within the two-week return period.
Despite Apple’s silence on the matter, insights from retail sources suggest that the return rate for the Vision Pro falls somewhere between average and above average.
On the other hand, smaller stores report one or two returns per day, while larger locations have seen over eight returns in a single day.
Reasons for Returns – Apple Vision Pro
Customers cite several reasons for returning the Vision Pro. Mark Gurman noted that common complaints include:
- Physical Discomfort: Users find the headset heavy, cumbersome, and uncomfortable, leading to headaches and difficulty managing it.
- Value Proposition: Limited applications and content fail to justify the high price tag.
- Productivity Impact: Work features are not significantly enhancing productivity compared to conventional setups, and prolonged usage proves challenging.
- Display Issues: Glare, narrow field of view, eyestrain, and vision problems detract from the experience.
- Social Disconnect: The device isolates users from social interactions, lacking shared experiences and hindering easy sharing due to its personalized fit requirement.
Feedback Collection
Gurman also mentioned that Apple is actively soliciting feedback from returning customers to address concerns and enhance the product.
Retail staff engage in post-return inquiries to relay customer feedback to the company’s headquarters, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to improving user experience.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Despite returns and challenges, the Vision Pro marks a significant stride in Apple’s mixed reality ambitions— Gurman cites that enhancements in future updates may mitigate existing software issues, fostering wider acceptance.
While some users express frustration with the device’s physical discomfort and software glitches, others praise its capabilities and refuse to part with it. Gurman himself underscores his commitment to the Vision Pro, emphasizing its value in his daily work.