Vision Pro Magic

The Apple Vision Pro is a headset that, in my view, completely redefines the way we interact with computers. When I first heard about it, I immediately realized that this technology had great potential, including for my work as a digital magician for corporate events. But I also know that new technology is often met with skepticism in companies. That’s why I asked myself how I could turn this reluctance into curiosity and even generate enthusiasm for it. At events, congresses and conferences, I use the headset specifically to create virtual “aha” moments that inspire my audience in the long term.

Spatial computing instead of sitting at a desk

Apple itself refers to working with the headset as “spatial computing”. Other manufacturers categorize this technology as “metaverse”, but I have observed that this term tends to cause confusion. This may also be why Apple deliberately chose a different term. Ultimately, Apple Vision Pro combines augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) and is therefore part of extended reality (XR), in which digital content is seamlessly embedded in our real world.

Virtual experiences with a real effect

The Apple Vision Pro opens up completely new possibilities, especially in areas such as education, medicine, live communication or entertainment, as I use it. When I wear the headset, I can see my real surroundings, but filmed live and projected onto displays right in front of my eyes. The slightly offset images create a vivid 3D effect. The user interface is reminiscent of a smartphone, except that the apps don’t lie flat in front of me, but float freely in space. It actually feels like I’m walking into a computer.

I have been working with digital special effects as an iPad magician on stage since 2010. What started with the iPad back then, I’m taking to a new level with the Apple Vision Pro. I combine real and virtual elements in such a way that things that only I can see through the headset still have visible effects on reality. My audience can follow what I see and experience in real time via a screen. For example, there is a real candle on stage. In a virtual video call, a friend tries to light it with a lighter, visible only to me through the headset. And the real candle actually starts to burn without anyone touching it. This is a completely new combination of magic and technology. I also use Apple Vision Pro in combination with artificial intelligence. I make it look as if I can read minds. Thought concepts seem to appear as holograms in front of my eyes. Even if this technology does not yet exist in reality, it impressively demonstrates the potential of AI to analyze and predict human behavior. For my audience, this is a visionary preview of what could soon be possible, exaggerated of course.

Curiosity as the starting point for innovation

I am convinced that when I introduce people to new technologies such as the Apple Vision Pro in a playful and emotional way, a space opens up for a genuine willingness to innovate. Many pioneering developments began with childlike enthusiasm, with playing, experimenting and trying things out. I myself worked with computers at an early age, programming and tinkering. And I know how important it is to retain this spirit of discovery. Wearing such a headset in everyday life still seems unusual. But let’s remember: a few decades ago, it was unimaginable for many people to look at a screen all day long. Today it is completely normal. It may even be healthier to work standing up or moving around in the future, which is exactly what the Vision Pro already makes possible. In the foreseeable future, this view could become a natural part of everyday working life.

As a digital entertainer, my aim is to bring amazement back into everyday working life. Because I am convinced that those who approach new technologies with openness and creativity create the basis for long-term success and genuine innovation. Further information on this special form of digital magic can be found on the Mixed Reality page. Watch a video of my virtual-real special effects and mind-reading of spectators in front of the Apple Store in Berlin here.