Apple Vision Pro Has Already Redefined WiFi Network Design for the Future, Are You Ready?

Let me start by saying, if this is too much for you, but you are concerned that you want the Vision Pro but aren't ready, call me. I'm ramping up to be the go-to person in the Apple consulting world for Vision Pro deployment and integration. If you are a freelance consultant and you want to get on-board in collaboration with me to provide this service, same thing, call me. I'm looking for partners.

Now, on to the rest of the article.

Unless you are experiencing a Rip Van Winkle like loss of extended consciousness, you should already know about the exciting news in the tech world from Apple! Apple unveiled its Vision Pro and the equally impressive visionOS earlier in 2023 intended for release in early 2024. It's a groundbreaking "spatial computer" set to launch in 2024, and for better or worse, it promises to change the way a lot of people use what we think of as a computer from now on. Is that truly revolutionary or just evolutionary? Turns out, it kind of doesn't matter. What matters is, change is coming, and that change requires that people in the wireless networking world think about the networks they support today BEFORE these things start showing up in peoples businesses and homes. So for those of us who do WiFi network design and installation, this moment may not be the start of a revolution, but the release of the Vision Pro will be a catalyst for the change of wireless networks everywhere. This ultra high-end mixed reality headset/computer, priced at $3500, is packed with the highest resolution and most sensors ever seen in an AR/VR product, redefining the boundaries between 2D, AR, and VR. The content that this device will upload and download will be massive in terms of volume, and demanding in terms of performance on that network. Don't believe me? Take a look at the Vision related videos from WWDC 23. It's a lot, but after you've watched what this thing is about to do to gaming, entertainment consumption, media creation, learning and productivity, you'll likely have the OMG moment I had, and you'll be rushing to figure out how to get your networks ready.

This first generation of the device has some limitations, and those limitations put a spotlight focus on the needs related to the WiFi aspect of the device – while the Vision Pro boasts built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, it doesn't have 5G for cellular so it's going to be on WiFi exclusively. Another important usage consideration is that it requires a charging cord for extended use beyond about 2 hours, so walking around downtown Manhattan with this thing on while doing a FaceTime call is probably not going to be a thing. This detail is critical for tech enthusiasts and professionals who are planning to integrate this device into their everyday lives or business operations. Where will it be used? Why?

Because it needs strong WiFi, and because it needs a tethered connection to power to operate for more than just short bursts, it's going to be used indoors mostly, and it's going to be on the WiFi networks in those indoor locations. In fact, because of the lack of 5G on the device, when it gets back to a WiFi network, it's likely that it will do what other Apple devices do, sync all recent changes to iCloud, meaning a huge initial burst of uploaded data if the user captured any spatial video/audio recordings while off network.

The Vision Pro's reliance on Wi-Fi means your current network setup might need a major overhaul if you have WiFi infrastructure that is more than a couple of years old. The device's advanced features, such as high-resolution video playback, internet browsing, spatial video capture and iCloud upload and download (synchronization) of that spatial video, and immersive FaceTime, all demand robust and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, and that's only the stuff we know about from Apple. Other vendors are VERY likely to create ultra cool stuff that is even more demanding. (Think online open world gaming in ultra high resolution that is fully immersive and lifelike. Yes, that could easily be coming soon, and would be insanely demanding on both your WiFi coverage and capacity, AND your internet speed up and down.) This may mean that you should be also thinking about installing a faster internet connection as well at any locations you administer.

So, what does this mean for existing WiFi networks, and the people who care for them?

Many current WiFi setups may struggle to keep up with the high bandwidth and low latency requirements of the Vision Pro. Networks that experience congestion, have limited coverage, or use outdated technology will likely encounter performance issues, potentially hampering the seamless experience that Vision Pro promises.

How can you prepare your WiFi network for the Apple Vision Pro?

1. Upgrade to WiFi 6 or 6E: Ensure your network can handle multiple high-bandwidth devices simultaneously. WiFi 6 and 6E are the latest wireless standards, and while Apple has not published what WiFi compatibility will be on the Vision Pro, it's very likely to be the best currently available, and that's WiFi 6 and 6E.
2. Enhance Coverage: Consider wired backhaul mesh WiFi systems for expansive coverage, especially in larger spaces. Seriously look at eliminating wireless backhauls in existing mesh networks by installing ethernet cabling from your network switches to your wireless infrastructure. (In any kind of serious network environment, you shouldn't be doing wireless backhauls anyway to avoid polluting your radio frequency space with hidden backhaul networks that can cloud your usable radio space, but that's another article.)
3. Enhance Capacity: As we add an entirely new class of computing device, that is not a replacement for other devices, but is intended to enhance the experience of other devices, we add device density within the same user space. This means that we need to add wireless capacity within our existing coverage area. When replacing equipment, pay attention to the number of devices supported, and how many radios are in each device. Look for things like 4x4 MIMO instead of 2x2 in higher density areas.
4. Follow Best Practices from Apple, NOT your generic WiFi hardware vendor: Pay attention to Apple's guidance on WiFi network design to enhance Apple device compatibility. The linked article will get you where you need to go, and you can't cherry pick the info in there. Pay attention to everything, it's all important, and it's enough to be an entirely different Linkedin article which I'll probably write soon. Understand Apple's best practices, and the unique features of your network hardware vendors configuration options related to Apple devices. This is a super confusing set of possibilities, so don't feel bad about asking a professional for help.

As we approach 2024, it's clear that the Apple Vision Pro isn't just a new device; it's a catalyst for change in the digital infrastructure of every physical space where a Vision Pro will be used. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a professional in the IT sector, or a business leader, it's time to rethink and upgrade your WiFi network to unlock the full potential of the Vision Pro. Do it now, start the project before the end of 2023 so you can get the ball rolling and momentum started before the holiday/post holiday work project snooze fest.

Good luck to you all and remember, if you need help I'm here to answer questions, to provide encouragement, and to just do it all for you if that's what you need.

#AppleVisionPro #WiFiNetworks #TechInnovation #FutureReady