Apple thinks the upcoming Vision Pro could be used to diagnose mental health issues

Apple has discussed using its Vision Pro headset to help diagnose and treat mental health issues, “which could broaden the appeal of the pricey device,” according to The Information (a subscription is required to read the entire article).

The article says such features would tap the device’s array of cameras and sensors to measure a person’s facial expressions, using them to detect depression, anxiety, stress or post-traumatic stress disorder, the people said. The Vision Pro could display images and sounds that might improve the wearer’s emotions, one of the people said. 

Various rules restrict companies from marketing medical functions in their devices without an OK from regulators. However, as The Information notes, over time, Apple has received clearance from regulators for health features in, for instance, the Apple Watch.

The US$3,499 (and higher) Vision Pro is due in, per Apple, “early 2024.” However, I expect “early” means anytime before June. And the Spatial Computer will apparently only be available in limited quantities at first.