In a scene that seemed straight out of a sci-fi film, the bustling streets of San Diego recently became the backdrop for a reminder about the balance between technological innovation and basic safety. After a video surfaced of a man engrossed in his Apple Vision Pro augmented reality headset while navigating a crosswalk, the San Diego Police Department felt compelled to issue a public advisory: When crossing the street, it's wise to do it the old-fashioned way—without digital distractions.
The footage, originally captured and shared on Instagram by event producer Michael Ciccone, quickly spread across social media platforms, garnering nearly 12,000 likes. The video shows a pedestrian, later identified as San Diego local Vlad Kislov, seemingly oblivious to his surroundings as he traverses downtown streets, a virtual menu floating before his eyes. Despite the proximity of a police patrol car and several officers, Kislov was absorbed in changing a song through his headset—ironically, from a music menu that appeared to be playing Matthew Wilder's "Break My Stride," though in reality, it was tuned to the beats of Russian rapper ATL.
The Apple Vision Pro, a device that allows its users to interact with apps and content while staying visually connected to the real world, has sparked a wide range of reactions. Priced at $3,500, the headset is hailed by some as a groundbreaking leap forward in wearable technology, while others view it as a harbinger of a dystopian future where digital and physical realities blur dangerously.
Responding to the incident, the San Diego Police Department leveraged its own social media presence to address the issue. In a post laden with a mix of humor and concern, the department urged the public to keep their virtual experiences to the sidewalk and prioritize real-world awareness when crossing the street. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with the integration of advanced technology into everyday life. As the world eagerly navigates the possibilities of augmented reality and wearable tech, it seems clear that ensuring safety in our shared spaces remains a paramount concern.
