Now You Can Wear Crocs on Your Face – Sort Of
If you’ve ever wanted to give your Apple Vision Pro a unique and quirky makeover, your wish has just been granted. Dbrand, the well-known tech accessory company, has teamed up with former Snap AR designer Kyle Goodrich to create the Aperture Faceplate. This unusual protective cover not only adds personality to the headset but also keeps it safe—all while drawing comparisons to an unexpected fashion item: Crocs shoes.
A Stylish and Functional Upgrade
The Aperture Faceplate is specifically designed for the Apple Vision Pro, featuring a web-style pattern with multiple openings. These holes aren’t just for aesthetics; they ensure that the Vision Pro’s cameras and sensors remain fully functional while adding a layer of protection to its delicate curved laminated glass.
However, this perforated design has led many to compare it to the iconic holes found on Crocs footwear. The internet quickly jumped on the resemblance, and The Verge’s Andrew Liszewski even highlighted this amusing comparison in his review, further fueling the buzz about the product. But beyond its humorous appearance, the Aperture Faceplate serves an important practical purpose. It helps shield the device from damage while keeping key features like hand-tracking, immersive AR environments, and spatial photography unobstructed.
From Concept to Reality
The journey of the Aperture Faceplate started as a personal project. In February 2024, Kyle Goodrich, then working at Snap, created a 3D-printed prototype to protect his own Apple Vision Pro. After showcasing the design online, he noticed a growing interest from others who wanted something similar. This led to a collaboration with Dbrand, which transformed the concept into a polished, market-ready product.
Unlike Goodrich’s original prototype, which was made using 3D printing, Dbrand’s version is built with a single-shot injection of high-durometer polyurethane. This material enhances durability and gives the final product a sleek, premium feel while maintaining its practical protective features.
Thoughtfully Designed with One Minor Drawback
The Aperture Faceplate is designed with carefully placed cutouts that ensure Vision Pro users don’t lose functionality. Openings accommodate the speakers, Digital Crown, and air vents, allowing the device to operate as intended. However, there is one small downside—Apple’s EyeSight feature, which displays a digital representation of the wearer’s eyes, is partially obstructed by the faceplate.
Given that many reviewers, including those at The Verge, have described EyeSight as underwhelming due to dim OLED displays, this limitation may not be a major concern for most users. In fact, for those who prefer a little extra privacy, the obstruction could be seen as a benefit rather than an issue.
Availability and Pricing
For those interested in adding a bit of personality and extra protection to their Apple Vision Pro, the Aperture Faceplate is now available for purchase at a price of $49. Additionally, Dbrand is offering a $69 bundle that includes a battery holster designed to prevent the Vision Pro’s external battery from slipping out of pockets or weighing down clothing.
A Fun Take on Tech Accessories
The Aperture Faceplate is yet another example of how third-party accessory makers are bringing personality and creativity to Apple’s sleek but minimalist products. While Apple generally opts for clean and simple designs, companies like Dbrand have found a niche in providing users with more playful and unconventional customization options.
With its humorous resemblance to Crocs, practical benefits, and durable design, the Aperture Faceplate is sure to be a conversation starter. Whether you love the way it looks or find it a little ridiculous, one thing is certain—this is one of the most memorable accessories available for Apple’s Vision Pro.
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