A 3rd Party External Battery for the Apple Vision Pro
# Navigating the Future of Augmented Reality: A Deep Dive into the Apple Vision Pro Battery Discussion
In this article, we’ll explore the insights shared by Mark, a user of the Apple Vision Pro, during his conversation on the podcast. The discussion revolves around the challenges and opportunities presented by the Vision Pro, particularly focusing on battery usage, external power options, and the overall experience with the device.
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## The Problem with Personas: A Call for Filters
The conversation begins with Mark expressing his thoughts on the concept of "personas" in augmented reality (AR). He humorously remarks that if the Vision Pro could make users look thinner or younger, there would be fewer complaints about its appearance. This segues into a discussion about the need for customizable filters to enhance user satisfaction.
Mark highlights how Apple’s current design, particularly the bulky form factor of the device, could be improved with better aesthetics and usability. He suggests that if the Vision Pro had features like thinner frames or younger appearances, users might be less critical of its design. This is a playful yet valid critique of AR hardware's limitations in blending seamlessly into everyday life.
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## Latency and Real-Time Interactions
Mark brings up an issue he encountered with latency during his experience with the Vision Pro. He explains that there was a noticeable delay in responses, which affected his interactions in real-time. However, he clarifies that this isn’t necessarily a flaw of the Vision Pro itself but rather related to internet connectivity issues.
This part of the discussion emphasizes the importance of reliable network infrastructure when using AR devices for real-time communication. Mark reassures listeners that during his unboxing and initial testing, the device performed well, indicating that latency isn’t an inherent problem with the hardware itself.
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## Battery Concerns and External Power Solutions
One of the most detailed portions of the conversation revolves around the Vision Pro’s battery life and external power options. Mark shares his dilemma about whether to invest in another Apple-branded battery or opt for a third-party solution. He explains that the Vision Pro’s proprietary battery connector is both inconvenient and expensive, forcing users to spend extra on additional batteries to extend usage time.
Mark also mentions the challenge of recharging the device while using it, especially in portable settings like his kitchen table. He explores the possibility of tethering the Vision Pro to an external power source via a USB-C connection but expresses concerns about damaging the built-in battery or overcharging it.
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## External Battery Recommendations
To address these challenges, Mark delves into potential solutions. He references a product recommended by Matthew Panzarino, a former TechCrunch editor-in-chief, called the Krisdonia external battery. This device is designed to work with Apple’s Vision Pro, offering a more convenient and safer alternative for powering the device.
Mark highlights the features of this external battery, including its ability to provide AC power, multiple USB ports, and a built-in readout that tracks battery life. He also suggests that using a high-quality anchor external battery could be a practical solution for users looking to extend their Vision Pro’s runtime without risking damage to the internal battery.
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## The Annoyance of Proprietary Design
Mark ventes his frustration with Apple’s decision to use a proprietary connector for the Vision Pro’s battery. He points out that this not only limits compatibility but also forces users to endure a lengthy reboot process whenever they swap batteries. This inconvenience, combined with the high cost of additional Apple-branded batteries, leaves users feeling nickel-and-dimed by the tech giant.
Despite these annoyances, Mark acknowledges that Apple has made some efforts to improve the experience, such as including a pass-through feature that allows the battery to charge while in use. However, he remains critical of what he sees as unnecessary proprietary restrictions.
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## Personal Experiences and Killer Apps
The conversation shifts to Mark’s personal experiences with the Vision Pro. He shares how his expectations were initially too high, but he has found certain uses for the device that have exceeded his wildest imaginations. For instance, he recently used it to watch three NBA games simultaneously while keeping other apps open—a feature he describes as a “game-changer” for sports fans.
Mark also touches on his productivity experience, mentioning how he’s currently trying to write a paper while using the Vision Pro alongside his work laptop. While he’s still uncertain about its long-term utility for productivity, he admits that it has already proven itself as an indispensable tool for entertainment and multitasking.
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## The Bittersweet Decision
As the discussion winds down, Mark reveals that he is nearing the end of his 14-day trial period with the Vision Pro. He reflects on whether he will keep the device or return it, noting that this decision hinges heavily on how much value he continues to derive from it in the coming days.
Mark’s tone suggests a bittersweet feeling about the experience. While he has found some remarkable uses for the device, he remains cautious about its future potential and whether it’s worth the significant investment required to keep it running smoothly.
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## Final Thoughts
In summary, Mark’s conversation provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities presented by Apple’s Vision Pro. From battery concerns and external power solutions to personal experiences and future implications, his insights highlight both the promise of AR technology and the hurdles users may face in adopting it.
Whether you’re considering purchasing the Vision Pro yourself or simply curious about its capabilities, Mark’s discussion offers valuable perspectives on what it means to be an early adopter of this groundbreaking technology.