The author begins by acknowledging that the first wave of reviews for the Apple Vision Pro (AVP) suggest that it will not be a best-seller at its current price and form factor. However, the author remains a strong believer in Augmented Reality (AR) and recalls a 1993 novel called Virtual Light by William Gibson that presents a future with devices similar to the AVP. The author recommends the book as an enjoyable read and highlights the unique setting of a wrecked Bay Bridge turned countercultural shantytown. The AR devices in the novel are peripheral to the plot but contain secret information that attracts various characters. The author then provides quotes from the book describing the technology, emphasizing that the devices are still heavier than desired but appear cool, transparent, and capable of displaying pictures and information. The author argues that the core value of AR is augmenting the real world, even through text labels, and expresses a desire to see augmented reality in everyday settings. The AVP is seen as a step towards achieving the vision described in the 1993 novel.
https://www.tbray.org/ongoing/When/202x/2024/02/02/Vision-1993