Apple Vision Pro: 6-Month Real-World Review - Is It Worth the $3,500 Price Tag?

 Today I want to talk about the Apple Vision Pro – a device that's sparked heated debates about whether it's a $3,500 pair of glasses or a $3,500 portal to a new world. Since its official launch in Korea last November, we've seen plenty of user reviews, but the steep price barrier still keeps this device out of reach for many. I've been using it hands-on, and I'm here to give you the real, unfiltered experience.

 

1. Apple Vision Pro Finally Arrives in Korea – 6 Months Later

 

Apple Vision Pro with an impressive soft design reminiscent of a cyborg (Photo: Apple official website)

 

 

 The sleek, cyborg-inspired design of the Apple Vision Pro is truly striking

It's been about 6 months since the Apple Vision Pro officially launched in Korea. After its February 2nd US debut, we had a long wait before pre-orders started on November 4th, 2024, with the official release on November 15th. But what's changed since then, and how are actual users feeling about it?

I've been consistently using the Vision Pro since it first came out, and I want to share how my evaluation has evolved from then to now, what new features have emerged, and give you detailed insights. Hopefully, this post will help answer your questions about the Vision Pro and assist you in making a purchase decision.

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2. VisionOS 2: What's Actually Different?

The Vision Pro's operating system, VisionOS 2, has brought several improvements with its latest update. The most noticeable change is Korean language support – you can now see all of the Vision Pro's basic functions and controls in Korean. Previously, you had to use English, which made it difficult to explain to others, but Korean support makes everything much more accessible.

Additionally, new hand gesture controls have been added, making the interface more intuitive and convenient. For example, when you look at your palm, a home view button appears, and pinching your fingers opens the control center. These small changes really add up to improve the overall user satisfaction.

3. Spatial Photos and Videos: How Realistic Do They Actually Feel?

It is introduced as having a three-dimensional and realistic display as its advantages. (Photo: Apple official website)

 

 Apple promotes the immersive display with depth and presence as a key advantage

One of the Vision Pro's core features is spatial photos and videos. When you view spatial photos and videos taken with an iPhone or Vision Pro on the device itself, they feel incredibly three-dimensional and lifelike. Starting with VisionOS 2, there's even a feature that converts regular photos into spatial photos, which creates a surprisingly immersive effect. It's like being transported back to the moment when the photo was taken.

Sometimes I find myself getting lost in memories while converting old photos to spatial format. Thanks to AI technology that transforms 2D images into 3D, it even creates depth for buildings and shadows automatically. Some people joke that it's a $3,500 webtoon browser, and while the comic reading experience is vivid, the sense of presence you get from photos is genuinely remarkable.

4. Here's How to Get the Most Out of Your Vision Pro

Some users leverage it to boost work focus, though I'm still mainly using it for entertainment

After 6 months with the Vision Pro, here are the five most useful ways I've found to use it:

First: Disney Plus. The Vision Pro Disney Plus app offers virtual cinema functionality and 3D movie viewing that's absolutely incredible. You can transform your home into a virtual theater for enhanced immersion, or enjoy 3D movies with even more depth than you'd get at the cinema.

Second: Synth Riders game. While playing this game, I get so absorbed that I forget about the Vision Pro's weight, and it feels like a decent workout too.

Third: High-quality video viewing. The Vision Pro's resolution quality is outstanding, making it perfect for watching 4K and 8K nature videos. Particularly, playing beach videos while walking in place makes you feel like you're actually there.

Fourth: VR concerts. Using apps like Amaze VR or Ventana VR to watch artist performances in VR feels incredibly realistic.

Finally: Apple HomeKit. Wearing the Vision Pro and controlling smart home devices with just a few hand gestures really makes you feel like you're living in the future.

5. Is the Vision Pro Really a 'Spatial Computer'?

It is more valuable when you see it with a sense of 3D space than when you see it in 2D. (Photo: Apple official website)

 

 The value truly shines when viewing content with 3D spatial awareness rather than just 2D

Apple calls the Vision Pro a "spatial computer," and here's why: the Vision Pro can recognize your surrounding environment in 3D in real-time and naturally place virtual objects in real space. Numerous sensors and processors accurately map the surrounding space, and virtual objects move in sync with your movements within the real environment. This allows us to interact with virtual environments in actual space without any sense of disconnect.

For example, you can disassemble virtual engine parts with your hands, or place virtual furniture in real space to check sizing and compatibility beforehand. The Vision Pro goes beyond being a simple VR device – it provides a completely new experience that transforms how we interact with space.

6. Create Your Personal Workspace with Spatial Widgets

Some people use it to increase their concentration at work. I'm still using it only for Enter (Photo: Apple official website)

 

The VisionOS update added a "spatial widgets" feature. Like smartphone widgets, you can pin desired widgets (calendar, clock, weather, stock apps, etc.) to specific locations in real space. For instance, you can fix a clock to a wall or float a weather widget next to your sofa.

Because the Vision Pro understands space through 3D mapping technology, it positions widgets flat against walls in the correct orientation. Even when you move around, these widgets stay fixed in their designated spots, which is incredibly convenient. Spatial widgets are extremely useful for creating your own customized work environment.

7. Persona Feature: How Much More Realistic Has It Become?

The immersive design allows for comfortable extended use

The Vision Pro's Persona feature has also significantly improved. Persona renders your face in realistic 3D so that when communicating with others, it appears as if your face is floating in space. This update makes it much more natural-looking. It now captures fine details like hair texture and eyelashes with incredible precision, and even renders side profiles with remarkable detail.

Rather than just creating a surface shell, it uses "volume rendering" technology that recognizes and renders the full volume of your face. During FaceTime calls, it looks almost identical to your actual appearance, enabling much more natural interactions.

8. Are There Any Downsides to the Vision Pro?

I was able to use it comfortably thanks to the immersive design (Photo: Apple official website)

 

While the Vision Pro has many advantages, it definitely has some drawbacks. The biggest issue is the weight and eye pressure. At over 600g, it's difficult to use for extended periods – I need to take it off about every 30 minutes. Sometimes I actually remove the Solo Knit Band or Dual Loop Band entirely and just hold it with one hand. While this isn't for long-term use, it does reduce the weight and pressure sensation.

There are various usage tips, but realistically, the significant weight and discomfort do discourage regular use. Daily use proved quite challenging.

9. Pro Tips for Getting More Out of Your Vision Pro

Although it emphasizes comfort, it is actually difficult to use for a long time. (Photo: Apple official website)

 

Apple emphasizes comfort, but honestly, long-term wear is tough

If you want to maximize your Vision Pro experience, consider some accessories and community resources. First, Elago's clear case, battery silicone case, and silicone stand are essential. The Vision Pro's display is externally exposed, making it vulnerable to scratches and damage. The battery is also scratch-prone, and the connected cable makes it easy to drop, so a silicone case provides slip resistance and protection.

To stay updated on new features and apps, regularly check for updates. The best source of information is Reddit's dedicated Vision Pro thread in the US online community. New app releases and update news appear fastest there, with detailed explanations through videos and photos.

10. Should You Buy the Vision Pro?

Try it and think about it (Photo: Apple official website)

 

Try it first, then decide

After 6 months with the Vision Pro, I kept asking myself: "Did I really need to buy this?" My honest conclusion is: "Don't buy it – rent it instead."

First, apply for an Apple Vision Pro demo experience on Apple's official website. It's crucial to experience it firsthand and determine if it's a device you actually need. Of course, if Apple releases a lighter version or smart glasses version, I'd consider purchasing again.

The VisionOS ecosystem is still being built, and we can expect many more apps and features to emerge. So try it out first – if it suits you well, you can always decide to purchase later. There's no rush.

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What are your thoughts on the Apple Vision Pro? Have you had a chance to try it? Share your experiences in the comments below!