Planning to Pre-Order a Vision Pro Next Friday? Here’s What You’ll Need to Get Ready

We only have a week to go before Apple’s Vision Pro goes up for pre-order, and the company wants to make sure customers are prepared with everything they may need on hand to order the long-awaited “spatial computing” headset.

That’s important since, unlike an iPhone, where you pretty much only have to pick your preferred color and storage capacity, the Vision Pro requires a proper fit and possibly even prescription lenses.

With some analysts suggesting that the Vision Pro could sell out quickly, it’s better to have all of the necessary information and tools at your fingertips so you can get your pre-order in as soon as they open — which will be at 5 a.m. PT on Friday, January 19.

What You Need to Order a Vision Pro

First off, Apple says that you’ll need an iPhone or iPad with Face ID nearby. This will be used to scan your face so Apple can determine the proper size Light Seal and headband to include in the package to ensure a precise fit.

While developers who were selected to receive Vision Pro test kits last year were given a special Head Measure and Fit app to use, it looks like Apple will be incorporating this functionality into the Apple Store app on your iPhone and iPad. MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris found related code in the latest version of that app, and the emails sent out by Apple to customers confirm this:

For the face scan, you’ll need the latest version of the Apple Store app, which became available on January 11.

This means you’ll need to ensure your Apple Store app is installed and up to date on the iPhone or iPad you plan to use to order the Vision Pro. It’s best to do that now, as waiting for it to download might cost you precious seconds come pre-order time.

Since the Vision Pro can’t be worn with glasses, those who need vision correction should also be prepared to order the ZEISS Optical Inserts, which Apple says will require a “valid, unexpired prescription from a U.S. eye-care professional.”

According to the email, you’ll need to “upload” your prescription, presumably by taking a picture or submitting it digitally. This means you’ll likely need to have the official prescription paperwork handy, as it doesn’t sound like you’ll just be able to key in the measurements manually.

Because Apple Vision Pro is designed to be worn without glasses, we’ve partnered with ZEISS to create custom optical inserts that accommodate most prescriptions. When you order, we’ll ask a few quick questions to find out if you need optical inserts. If you do, you’ll upload a valid, unexpired prescription from a U.S. eye?care professional after checkout.

It’s unclear if this will slow down the actual order, as Apple said the prescription will need to be uploaded “after checkout,” so you may be able to secure your place in line and dig up your prescription later. However, it’s best not to take any chances if you really want to get your hands on a Vision Pro on launch day.

While it’s possible to store your vision prescription in the Health app, there’s no indication that this will tie into the Apple Store, so be prepared to upload it separately during the ordering process.

Of course, you also have the option to visit an Apple Store on February 2, when the new headset will arrive in stores. Apple is almost certainly reserving some stock for in-store sales, which means you won’t need to worry about pre-orders selling out — and you’ll be able to speak with a trained specialist to ensure you get the fit and vision prescription requirements sorted out.