Earlier this week, Apple opened applications for test versions of the Apple Vision Pro headset. For the company, this means that the gadget will leave the thick walls of its “native” laboratories and fall into the hands of third-party developers.

But Apple is known for its thirst for secrecy and has developed a series of rules and prohibitions that should limit information leaks and prevent cases like the test iPhone 4 that was accidentally (or not) forgotten in a bar.

Currently, the company is forced to provide developers with test samples, as it once did with the Apple Watch, Apple TV and new Macs with their own processors, so that the corresponding software for it could be launched together with the release of the product. We will remind that this should happen at the beginning of 2024.

According to Mark Gurman, the developers to whom Apple will issue test samples will be able to transfer information about your own measurements determined by the special Measure and Fit application for iPhone. At the same time, it was previously noted that in the future, buyers will be offered to visit the store to more accurately determine the necessary sizes of device accessories.

Mr. Gurman also added that in case of need for glasses, the developers will receive the corresponding lenses directly from Zeiss.

And after the developers receive mixed reality headsets, they will have to follow clear rules from Apple so that the gadgets do not fall into the wrong hands.

Thus, the test gadget will need to be used and stored in closed rooms without windows, glass walls, doors, ceilings, etc. Use is permitted only by authorized personnel and the person in charge must be able to see how it is being used. In addition, you need to make sure that everyone else, including “family, friends, roommates or household employees”, do not have the opportunity to test or even see the gadget.

Of course, the headset must be password-locked, turned off when not in use, and stored in an appropriate Pelican case and in a closed space (“clocked room or closet, a safe or locked drawer”).

“The DK may not be moved from or taken away from its ship-to address by You or Your Authorized Developers without Apple’s prior written consent. If You will be away from Your workspace for more than 10 days, consult with Your Apple point of contact about how to keep the DK safe while You are away. You agree to restrict access to the DK to You and Your Authorized Developers, and to take all reasonable precautions to safeguard the DK from loss or theft,” the terms of use state.

MacRumors publication adds, that Apple will even use AirTag in case a test Vision Pro is lost or stolen:

Information on Apple’s developer website also mentions a workflow for unpairing an AirTag when returning a kit, which suggests Apple is using its item trackers to keep tabs on the headsets. An AirTag could perhaps be included in the storage case to allow it to be tracked down in the event of a theft.

Currently, there is no information regarding the terms of confirmation of applications for Vision Pro tests or the number of such devices that the company will provide to third-party developers. It would also be interesting to know what liability and consequences the person responsible for the loss of the test sample may face.