Apple recently announced that it will start taking pre-orders for the Apple Vision Pro in the US on January 19 at 5:00 a.m. Pacific Time, with the first units expected to ship on February 2. As with all hot new Cupertino products, we definitely expect some hurdles in acquiring one early. That is probably even more applicable to the Apple Vision Pro since analysts have predicted hardware shortages and very limited initial availability for the product.
We now have a bit more idea as to what the initial pre-order process for the Apple Vision Pro will look like, and apparently, it will require a facial scan with a compatible Apple device with Face ID. So, prospective buyers need to have a compatible iPhone or iPad ready and the latest Apple Store app installed to go through the process.
Have an iPhone or iPad with Face ID nearby.
When you order Apple Vision Pro, you’ll need to scan your face with an iPhone or iPad with Face ID. This helps us determine the right size Light Seal and head bands, which work together to give you a precise fit.
Make sure your Apple Store app is up to date.
For the face scan, you’ll need the latest version of the Apple Store app, which became available on January 11.
The folks over at MacRumors did also find a string in the Apple Store app that reads: “You may scan your face to determine your size for Apple Vision Pro” which suggests that the scan might not be mandatory for all future buyers but we can only imagine that Apple will be using it as sort of a filter for the most enthusiastic early birds.
It is also interesting to note that the Apple Vision Pro comes with a Solo Knit Band and Dual Loop Band, and there’s a Light Seal and two different Light Seal Cushions in the package, as well as a polishing cloth, a battery, a USB-C cable, and a USB-C adapter. So it sounds like every user will be getting at least a couple of fit options regardless of the facial scan? Or perhaps these will still be based on the scan for a rough estimation of some sort?
Honestly, it’s too early to say, but it seems like Apple definitely wants the Vision Pro to be a deeply personal and tailored device, not one easily and effectively shared with others. This fact is further backed up by the purchase requirements for the optional $149 ZEISS optical inserts for users needing vision correction. Apparently, that will require a valid prescription.
Have your vision prescription handy.
Because Apple Vision Pro is designed to be worn without glasses, we’ve partnered with ZEISS to create custom optical inserts that accommodate most prescriptions. When you order, we’ll ask a few quick questions to find out if you need optical inserts. If you do, you’ll upload a valid, unexpired prescription from a US eye care professional after checkout.
Finally, Apple also detailed its in-store demo policy for the Vision Pro. It will initially take place over launch weekend on a first-come-first-serve basis but will still require a sign-up.
Be one of the first to get a demo of Apple Vision Pro. Only at the Apple Store.
Starting at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, February 2, we invite you to sign up for a demo of Apple Vision Pro at your local Apple Store. Demo times will be available Friday through the weekend on a first come, first served basis. We can’t wait to see you there.
As a reminder, Apple is initially launching the Vision Pro only in the US and in a single 256GB variant for $3,499. Cupertino did hint that other storage variants will also likely be available in the future.
