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As Apple steps into the world of spatial computing with its ambitious Vision Pro headset, tech industry leaders are beginning to weigh in on what this shift means for the future. One notable voice is Google CEO Sundar Pichai, whose remarks offer both professional courtesy and strategic insight.
Pichai's response to Apple’s foray into mixed reality is less about rivalry and more about possibility. Speaking in a recent interview, he shared that while he hasn’t yet tried the Apple Vision Pro himself, he’s genuinely curious about its capabilities — and what it could mean for the broader tech landscape.
A Respectful Nod to Apple’s Engineering
During the discussion, Pichai was asked to comment on Apple’s high-profile unveiling of the Vision Pro, a $3,500 mixed reality headset that promises to merge digital content with the physical world in immersive ways. Rather than critique or downplay the device, Pichai took a diplomatic and forward-looking approach.
He acknowledged Apple’s reputation for engineering excellence and emphasized that any move pushing forward innovation in computing interfaces is a welcome step for the industry as a whole. “It looks impressive,” he said, noting the sophistication of the hardware from afar. However, he clarified that he hadn’t personally used the device yet and was awaiting a hands-on experience to fully assess it.
Google’s Parallel Journey in Augmented Reality
While Apple may have stolen headlines with its Vision Pro launch, Google is no stranger to the mixed reality space. Pichai pointed to Google’s long-standing work in augmented reality (AR), highlighting projects like Google Lens, ARCore, and various wearable initiatives. Google was, after all, an early mover with Google Glass, a product that came before its time and faced challenges in market adoption.
Now, with the rise of spatial computing, Pichai emphasized that Google remains committed to innovation in AR and immersive technology. In his words, the company is “excited about the space” and is working on projects that align with the future of more natural, intuitive interfaces.
Collaboration Over Competition?
What stood out in Pichai’s remarks was his collaborative tone. Rather than stoking the fire of a rivalry between tech giants, he suggested that Apple’s entry could help validate and accelerate the entire spatial computing category. This view echoes his broader philosophy: technology should evolve in ways that benefit users globally, regardless of which company takes the lead.
Indeed, his optimism is rooted in a shared industry challenge — building the infrastructure, hardware, and user experiences that make immersive technology genuinely useful and accessible.
The Bigger Picture: A New Computing Paradigm
The launch of Apple Vision Pro — and Pichai’s measured reaction — signals a broader transformation in the tech industry. Spatial computing, combining virtual and augmented reality with AI and real-time data, is being positioned as the next major evolution in how we interact with information.
Pichai’s comments reflect a sober awareness that this space is still in its early days. Mass consumer adoption of devices like Vision Pro will likely take time, especially at high price points. But the direction is clear: immersive, intelligent, and context-aware computing is no longer science fiction — it’s unfolding now.
What Lies Ahead for Google?
While Google hasn’t unveiled a direct competitor to the Vision Pro — yet — its continued investments in AR software, Android integration, and AI-powered search suggest that it’s laying the groundwork for more immersive experiences. Pichai hinted at this future subtly, reaffirming that Google believes in computing that blends seamlessly into everyday life.
Whether through glasses, mobile phones, or entirely new form factors, Google’s approach will likely emphasize openness, integration, and AI as a backbone — a contrast to Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem.
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