By Joanna Putman
Police1
LOS ANGELES — Several California police departments have begun testing Apple’s new mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro, for law enforcement purposes, aiming to use the technology for accessing video feeds and databases and coordinating police responses remotely, Forbes reported.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department recently demonstrated the Vision Pro as part of its real time operations center, a unit that gathers data from sources such as license plate readers, mobile phone locations and criminal records, according to the report. Dave Fontneau, the department’s chief information officer, said the headset allowed him to remotely access a virtual version of the center and manage operations from a distance.
“I was able to put on the headset and transport myself into the environment…and manipulate maps and bring them up in a 3D environment, move assets, place officers in vehicles and manipulate camera feeds. It was eye-opening.,” Fontneau told Forbes.
He also noted that the technology could reduce the need for large, expensive physical crime centers filled with multiple screens, according to the report.
Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3,499, could see increased sales within law enforcement. Fontneau acknowledged that while the device is currently too heavy for use in the field, Apple is developing a lighter version that could be more practical for officers, according to the report.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is also testing the Vision Pro. The LAPD plans to use the device for “enhanced surveillance and monitoring” with augmented reality overlays, providing officers with real-time information such as license plate data or live video feed analysis.
“This enhanced situational awareness can improve decision-making, response times, and overall officer safety,” said LAPD Deputy Chief John McMahon in a proposal for the device’s deployment. “We plan to investigate the potential associated with future hands-free operations… This hands-free operation could provide means for officers to remain focused on their surroundings and potential threats while still accessing critical data and resources.”
Both departments see potential in using the Vision Pro to improve law enforcement operations, though its use remains in the testing phase, according to the report.
