Dall-E

Apple’s Vision Pro — A Trojan Horse in Child Digital Safety?

Apple is launching their version of a headset (spatial computer) on 2nd of Feb to the US Market. Safer Internet Day is on the 6th of Feb.

Is this a Trojan Horse in Child Digital Safety?

The launch of Apple’s Vision Pro marks a significant milestone in the realm of spatial computing, a development that goes far beyond the scope of a mere headset. This pivotal shift in technology represents a transformative evolution in our interaction with digital content, where users are immersed in three-dimensional digital environments that seamlessly merge the physical and virtual worlds. The Vision Pro, as a trailblazer in this paradigm shift from traditional to spatial computing, unlocks new possibilities for more profound and engaging digital experiences.

However, this marvel of innovation comes with its own set of challenges, especially concerning children and young people. I position myself as a critical voice in this development, challenging the complacency that often accompanies such technological advancements. My recent research, in collaboration with the University of East London and Middlesex University, reveals a concerning scenario about the virtual world’s impact on children. The accessibility and immersive nature of devices like the Vision Pro amplify these impacts, potentially exposing our youth to unprecedented dangers in the digital realm. It’s a dual narrative of groundbreaking technological progress intertwined with the need for heightened awareness and precaution in the digital safeguarding of our younger generation.

This launch, juxtaposed with Safer Internet Day on February 6th, symbolizes more than a technological breakthrough; it’s a foray into a realm fraught with unaddressed dangers. We’re confronted with urgent questions:

Does the Vision Pro serve as a cutting-edge tool for our children, or does it open a digital Pandora’s box, unleashing untold risks like cyberbullying, online grooming, and a distorted perception of reality?