Introduction to the Partnership

Apple and Metallica have collaborated on a unique project, aiming to deliver a complimentary, immersive concert experience from one of Metallica’s live performances to the Apple Vision Pro platform. As of March 14, Apple Vision Pro owners will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances of iconic tracks such as "Whiplash," "One," and the fan favorite "Enter Sandman," all of which were filmed during a stop on Metallica’s M72 World Tour in the previous year. Furthermore, an exclusive EP, titled M72 World Tour: Mexico City, will be made available on Apple Music this Friday, featuring spatial audio for a truly immersive listening experience.

Capturing the Concert Experience

To achieve the goal of capturing the concert in stunning 180-degree video and spatial audio, Apple designed a bespoke stage setup that incorporated 14 Apple Immersive Video cameras. The camera arrangement included cameras suspended from cables and mounted on remote-controlled dolly systems, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the performance from various angles.

The Immersive Experience

The immersive set promises to be an engaging experience, particularly for those who find themselves at the intersection of being Metallica fans and owners of the Apple Vision Pro, which comes with a price tag of $3,500. For those interested, it will also be possible to experience this by booking a complimentary demo at an Apple Store. However, the question remains whether this immersive experience can rival the extraordinary moment when a lightning storm coincided with Metallica’s performance of "Master of Puppets" at an outdoor concert last year, adding a touch of unpredictability and awe to the show. Probably, the staged immersive experience, despite its technological advancements, may not fully capture the essence and spontaneity of such a unique live event.