Weighty Issue: The Cause of Black Eyes

The culprit behind these black eyes seems to be the headset’s design.

Several reports suggest the Vision Pro’s weight, comparable to a 12.9-inch iPad Pro, combined with an imperfect fit, puts undue pressure on users’ cheeks.

This pressure can potentially lead to the formation of temporary bruises or petechiae, which appear as black eyes.

Early user experiences, like that of Hopscotch Interactive’s CMO Emily Olman, highlight this issue.

Olman reported experiencing “super dark black eyes” after using the headset due to an uncomfortable fit that placed too much pressure on her cheeks.

Apple made a big splash with its wildly expensive Apple Vision Pro virtual reality headset earlier this year.

Despite its eye-watering price tag of $3,500, the device impressed reviewers with stunning clarity and highly accurate hand and head tracking.

Pain in the neck – Apple Vision PRO VR

Other users corroborated the awkward fit. Consulting firm Signal and Cipter CEO Ian Beacraft told MarketWatch that he felt a soreness at the base of his skull and upper back after using it for just two hours.

Other users fared a little better.

“I could wear the 1.3-pound Vision Pro for four or five hours before my neck needed a break, but I had to adjust the fit often,” Washington Post tech reporter Chris Velazco wrote, after wearing the device for two weeks.

Meanwhile, Apple recommends taking the headset off every 20 to 30 minutes.

Other users have reported getting headaches and even a burst blood vessel in an eye in one instance.

Apart from literal pain, reviewers have pointed out a number of other downsides to the first-generation device, including a passthrough camera that translates everything the wearer sees with blurry results, and a lackluster app ecosystem.

In short, the Apple Vision Pro is a technological marvel — but certainly not an ergonomic one.

But chances are that Apple engineers are already hard at work trying to slim down the next iteration, which isn’t expected to come out for at least a year and a half.

Avoiding the Bruise: Tips for Comfortable VR Use

While the Vision Pro offers a cutting-edge VR experience, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort during use. Here are some tips to minimize the risk of black eyes and ensure a more enjoyable VR session:

• Adjust the fit: Take time to ensure the headset sits comfortably and securely without putting excessive pressure on your face. Experiment with the adjustable straps to find the optimal positioning.
• Take breaks: VR use can be immersive, but it’s important to take regular breaks to allow your eyes and face to rest. Apple’s own literature recommends limiting sessions to around an hour to prevent eye strain and other discomforts.
• Consider padding: If you experience pressure points, explore adding small, soft padding to the areas of contact between the headset and your face. This can help distribute the weight more evenly and reduce discomfort.