Twitter's co-founder and former CEO, Jack Dorsey, has expressed reservations regarding the potential consequences of the recently unveiled Vision Pro Headset by Apple. During an interview with Saagar Enjeti and Krystal Ball on "Breaking Points," Dorsey shared his concerns about a future society consumed by augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, drawing parallels to the dystopian setting portrayed in Pixar's renowned animated movie "WALL-E."

Dorsey's remarks arise from his observations regarding the possible social detachment caused by immersive technologies. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach, recognizing the gaming potential and user interface advancements offered by headsets like Vision Pro by Apple. However, he also expressed worry about the potential detachment and further distancing of individuals in an increasingly technologically immersed society.

During the engaging discussion, Dorsey thoughtfully explored the fascinating interplay between the cutting-edge progress in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) and the captivating realm of science fiction literature. In particular, he made a noteworthy reference to the thought-provoking works of Neal Stephenson's "Snow Crash" and Ernest Cline's "Ready Player One," recognizing the profound impact these imaginative narratives have had on igniting the imagination and molding the trajectory of real-world endeavors to replicate and immerse individuals in similar awe-inspiring virtual experiences. By drawing parallels between these literary masterpieces and the ongoing advancements in VR and AR technologies, Dorsey emphasized the invaluable role of speculative fiction in shaping the ambitions and aspirations of creators in bringing these transformative experiences closer to reality.

In Neal Stephenson's "Snow Crash," the main character embarks on a journey that takes him through both a grim and chaotic reality and a virtual realm known as "the Metaverse," which shares resemblances with Meta's own virtual world concept. Likewise, Ernest Cline's "Ready Player One" depicts a protagonist who immerses themselves in an expansive virtual game world using a headset. Dorsey emphasized the significant impact of science fiction as a source of inspiration when envisioning the potential trajectory of technological advancements. These works of fiction serve as guiding lights, illuminating the possibilities and shaping our collective imagination of the future of technology.

While acknowledging the inevitability of progress in AR and VR, Dorsey stressed the importance of engaging in conversations about the potential harms associated with increased social distancing and dependency on immersive technologies. He called for a thoughtful examination of the relationship between individuals and technology, underscoring the need for an honest assessment of both the benefits and drawbacks.

In summary, Dorsey's apprehensions provide valuable insights into the wider ramifications associated with Apple's Vision Pro headset and the continuous development of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. His thoughtful remarks serve as a catalyst for contemplation regarding the potential effects of these innovations on human interactions and the dynamics of society as a whole. This interview underscores the importance of ongoing dialogues aimed at ensuring the responsible integration of immersive technologies, striking a harmonious equilibrium between technological progress and the preservation of meaningful human connections. By addressing these concerns proactively, we can navigate the transformative possibilities of AR and VR while safeguarding the essential aspects of human connection that define our social fabric.

Read next: Company Data Breaches: What We Can Learn So Far in 2023