When Apple announced plans for its Apple Vision Pro virtual reality headset at the Worldwide Developers Conference earlier this month, the company touted features such as multitasking, watching TV and movies, and playing video games. However, in what may sway some consumers on the hefty $3,500 price tag, Apple is also reportedly planning to integrate fitness features into the headset.
According to a new report from the The Information (via the Verge), which spoke to former employees, Apple has explored partnering with Nike to design workouts for the Vision Pro, and is even looking into special face cushions for "sweaty, high-intensity workouts" as to not damage the device. Another possible feature that Apple is considering is the ability for users to interact with content while on a stationary bike, similar to Peloton.
It all makes sense, given that the Vision Pro already integrates with Fitness+ for a meditation app that conference attendees were able to test out. Apparently Apple is also planning other wellness apps, such as a tai chi app and a yoga app that measures the user's breathing by "observing a user’s chest and torso."
But with these features still in the works, the company was not ready to make them public knowledge as part of its initial announcement.
Part of the problem, the report states, could also stem from the bulky, cumbersome external battery pack that may not lend well to high-intensity fitness workouts. Neither would the front-facing glass screen, which could prove to be "too fragile to survive a bump from furniture or a wall."
With months before the official rollout early next year, Apple has plenty of time to work out these kinks. Fitness features are quickly becoming a big selling point for virtual reality headsets—given the popularity of the Supernatural subscription-based service through the Oculus headset—and you can bet Apple is going to figure out a way to capitalize on the trend.
