How to Try Out the Apple Vision Pro Without Paying $3,499

The Apple Vision Pro looks cool and all, but the idea of actually buying one seems a bit risky at this point. Not only is it Apple's first foray into the augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) space (a useful rule of thumb for any first-generation tech: let someone else buy it), it also costs $3,499, which is still a lot of money for most people. At the very least you'll want to try out this gadget before you make a purchase—and Apple is allowing you to do just that. 

The company recently sent an email to people subscribed to the Apple Vision Pro email newsletter advertising the option to sign up for a demo of the product at your local Apple Store. In the email, the company states, "Starting at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, we invite you to sign up for a demo of Apple Vision Pro at your local Apple Store. Demo times will be available Friday through the weekend on a first-come, first-served basis. We can’t wait to see you there."

It's possible that demos will be available even after that weekend, but the Apple email does not explicitly say so. So if you are interested in trying out the Apple Vision Pro, you should check with your local Apple Store to find out if the device is available for a demo and sign up as soon as possible. The timings and availability of a demo unit could vary on a store-by-store basis, so it's best to call ahead and check so you don't miss your chance—it appears this won't simply be the case of an Apple Vision Pro being left out on a table next to the iPhones for anyone to slip on.

The Apple Vision Pro will be available for pre-order in the U.S. on Jan. 19, 2024, at 5 a.m. PT and will start shipping on Feb. 2. Apple also promises you'll be able to buy it from all U.S. Apple Stores on that date, but who knows if there will be supply to meet demand (or vice versa). At launch, you will be also able to buy optical inserts for the Vision Pro. Readers are priced at $99, and prescription lenses will cost $149.