Twitter Founder Jack Dorsey expressed his dissatisfaction with Apple’s mixed reality headset Vision Pro, raising concerns about the potential negative impact of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies on society. During an interview, Dorsey drew parallels to the dystopian world depicted in the animated movie “WALL-E,” where humans are portrayed as detached and consumed by screens. He observed that immersive technologies could lead to social detachment and further isolation. While acknowledging the gaming potential and advancements in user interface, Dorsey emphasized the need for a balanced approach to prevent distancing individuals. He expressed worry about these technologies making people out-of-touch and creating more distance between them.
Dorsey also drew comparisons between recent advancements in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies and notable science-fiction works like “Snow Crash” by Neal Stephenson and “Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline. He highlighted the influence of science fiction as a roadmap for understanding the future of technology. Dorsey, who currently serves as the CEO of Square, expressed skepticism about certain benefits associated with AR and VR. He emphasized the need for an honest conversation about the potential harms, particularly in relation to increased social distancing. While acknowledging that AR and VR are inevitable, Dorsey urged for a balanced assessment of their implications.
