Apple Vision Pro is Coming to China

Forget trade wars, China remains the ultimate prize in the tech world. With a billion-strong consumer base and a stranglehold on global supply chains, even the US' biggest tech companies can't resist the country's allure.

A good mention is Apple's recent announcement to bring its Vision Pro headset to the country. Confirmed by CEO Tim Cook, the $3,499 mixed-reality headset which made waves upon its debut in the US market in February is set to hit Chinese shelves as early as May.

Boasting a high-resolution display and powered by Apple's own proprietary visionOS, Apple is hungry for a slice of China's $6.6 billion mixed-reality market, per Statista.

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The mixed reality headset will be available first in the United States, with the UK and Canada expected to follow next.

TechloyWisdom Okogho

However, the big tech is expected to face competition in the VR headset space in China, notably from VR company Pico, owned by TikTok parent ByteDance.

Additionally, there is also the question of whether Chinese users will embrace Apple's vision. It is notable to recall that Apple faced early tumbles in the US, as some US buyers returned their headsets just before the expiration of Apple's 14-day return period.

The announcement also coincides with declining smartphone sales in China. According to Counterpoint Research, iPhone sales in China were down 24% year-over-year in the first six weeks of 2024.

CHART: Apple faces a setback in the Chinese smartphone market

Counterpoint Research’s latest findings revealed a troubling 7% year-over-year decline in overall smartphone sales during the first six weeks of the year, further denting Apple’s foothold in the region.

TechloyEmmanuel Oyedeji

Only time will tell if Apple's gamble will pay off. If the Vision Pro will overcome the competition, user hesitation, and a potentially saturated high-end market it is making its way into.