Residents in China are showing great interest in the Apple Vision Pro ahead of its official launch in the country. According to the South China Morning Post, individuals are eager to experience the device and are even resorting to renting it from third-party vendors. Advertisements offering rentals for Apple's mixed reality headset, priced at $3,500 in the US, have been spotted on various Chinese platforms such as Alibaba Group Holding's Xianyu and Zhuan Zhuan.
Rental rates for the Apple Vision Pro in China range from approximately $13.62 (98 yuan) per hour to about $208 (1500 yuan) per day. Some rental listings require a deposit of at least $4,168 (30,000 yuan), while others provide the option to purchase the device after use. The source of these Apple Vision Pro units available for rent in China remains unclear.
Reports indicate that Vision Space, a VR startup based in Beijing, has experienced significant demand for Vision Pro rentals. Following the device's US launch, one of the company's physical stores reportedly attracted over 10,000 customers within two days, with individuals lining up to experience the technology firsthand. While Vision Space did not offer further comments on the matter, customer feedback suggests a positive reception towards the rented headsets, with some users contemplating a purchase.
Although Apple CEO Tim Cook has hinted at an imminent release of the headset in China, no official launch date has been announced yet. Apple has not responded to inquiries regarding the device's availability in the Chinese market. Once the Apple Vision Pro becomes officially accessible in China, third-party vendors offering rentals may face competition from Apple's own retail channels.
In the US, Apple provides complimentary 30-minute demonstrations of the headset guided by Apple store staff. However, for those interested in longer-term use, third-party vendors in China are not the only option. Photography equipment rental companies like Lensrentals and ShareGrid are also reportedly offering Apple Vision Pro rentals, starting at $120 per day.
As the anticipation for the Apple Vision Pro grows in China, individuals are exploring various avenues to experience the cutting-edge technology. Whether through third-party rentals or potential direct purchases upon the device's official release, the enthusiasm for Apple's mixed reality headset is palpable among consumers in the country.
