Apple will warn consumers that some should not use the AR/VR mixed reality headset
Apple's next "Big Thing" will be unveiled tomorrow as the mixed-reality AR/VR headset promises to steal the show during the WWDC 2023 Keynote which starts Monday at 10 am PDT/1 pm EDT. Of course, the iOS 17 preview might hold some interest for many watching the event as it is livestreamed tomorrow over the Apple Developer app, Apple's website, and the Apple channel on YouTube.
Certain conditions might prevent you from using Apple's Reality Pro headset safely
According to a tweet from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman (via Wccftech), Apple will issue some health warnings to those using its $3,000 headset. According to Gurman, "If you’re prone to inner ear infections, have ADHD/ADD, anxiety disorders, a pacemaker, epilepsy, blackouts/seizures or are pregnant, you may be warned against using the headset. In addition to Meniere's disease, past traumatic brain injuries, post-concussion syndrome, migraines." Meniere's disease is a problem characterized by a build-up of fluids in the chambers of the inner ear.
Apple plans to issue a warning to Reality Pro users
You might not be aware of it, but Apple does warn iPhone users that they might want to consult with their physician before using the device. On a support page, Apple notes, "If you have any medical condition or experience symptoms that you believe could be affected by iPhone or flashing lights (for example, seizures, blackouts, eyestrain, or headaches), consult with your physician prior to using iPhone."
Before trying the Reality Pro, if you have any of the conditions that Gurman included in his tweet, you just might want to speak to your doctor to see how you might respond to using the headset. While the Apple Watch is known for saving lives, imagine what would happen if Apple's expensive new device caused some users to pass out, have a seizure, or become anxious.
Note that these warnings are not unique to Apple. Gurman notes that "Apple's headset is bananas immersive but these health warnings are pretty standard (or should be standard) amongst all headsets. Apple, of course, is typically the most cautious and proactive when it comes to user safety."
The Meta Quest 2 headset comes with a warning that says, "Some people (about 1 in 4,000) may have severe dizziness, seizures, eye or muscle twitching or blackouts triggered by light flashes or patterns. This may occur while they are watching TV, playing video games, or experiencing virtual reality, even if they have never had a seizure or blackout before or have no history of seizures or epilepsy."
Apple iPhone users were getting sick from iOS 7
The warning for the Meta Quest 2 adds who is vulnerable. "These symptoms arise more commonly in children and young people. Anyone who experiences any of these symptoms should stop use of the headset and see a doctor. If you previously have had a seizure, loss of awareness, or other symptom linked to an epileptic condition you should see a doctor before using the headset."
If you have one of the following issues, Meta warns potential Quest 2 users not to use its headset:
- Tiredness or exhaustion
- Need sleep
- Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Hung-over
- Have digestive problems
- Under emotional stress or anxiety
- When suffering from cold, flu, headaches, migraines, or earaches
Almost a decade ago iPhone users running iOS 7 experienced vertigo, got sick to their stomach, and had headaches after the parallax and zoom features of the OS made them sick. You might recall that with iOS 7, tilting the iPhone resulted in a 3D effect by having the app icons float over the handset's wallpaper. Apple did include a toggle to reduce this motion in the accessibility menu.
A couple of years before that, certain Android 3D phones using a stereoscopic effect such as the HTC EVO 3D and LG Optimus 3D/LG Thrill were known to cause eye fatigue, headaches, and discomfort.
Again, if you have any of the conditions mentioned in Gurman's tweet, it might not be a bad idea to visit your doctor before using Apple's new mixed-reality headset. And unless you plan on attending WWDC, the good news is that you'll have nearly the rest of the year to make your appointment.
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