Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is gearing up for the February launch of its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, with production in full swing at Chinese facilities. The company aims to have customer-ready units by the end of January, reported Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter. The retail debut is planned for February.
Developers received an email from Apple encouraging them to prepare their apps for the Vision Pro, hinting at the imminent release. This launch marks Apple's first new product category since the 2015 debut of its smartwatches.
The Vision Pro, retailing at $3,500, requires new sales strategies due to its custom components and assembly needs at the point of sale. It's a complex product, demanding proper fitting for optimal use.
Apple is enhancing its retail stores to accommodate the Vision Pro, with space for inventory, new fixtures, and accessories like head straps and prescription lenses. The product's various sizes and configurations will require additional storage and demonstration areas.
Training for retail staff is underway, with employees from each store visiting Apple's headquarters for detailed sessions on the Vision Pro's features and sales techniques, according to the report.
The company is also developing visionOS, the next version of the device's operating system, set to release later in 2024.