In the midst of polarizing opinions surrounding Apple's Vision Pro headsets, recent reports suggest that the return rate for the product is not significantly higher than other Apple devices. Contrary to claims of a massive flood of returns, sources within Apple's retail chain at 24 mostly US east coast stores have revealed that return volumes remain within the normal range for new products.

According to a senior Apple Retail employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the number of returns reported for the Apple Vision Pro headsets is consistent with the levels expected for new releases. Another insider source mentioned that despite having a checklist to ensure all components and packaging are intact during returns, the use of this checklist for the headsets has been minimal.

It's important to note that the data collection process for return rates is challenging due to various factors such as online sales that are often returned at retail stores. Additionally, specific sales figures and store-level data are not accessible, making it difficult to provide an accurate assessment of the overall return rate.

Regarding the demographics of returners, two main groups have been identified. The first group consists of buyers who experience immediate physical discomfort or biological incompatibility with the headset. These individuals typically return the product within a day or two of purchase, often due to motion sickness or other health-related reasons.

The second group of returners appears to be media producers who may be using the purchase as a temporary rental. Retail employees have reported that a significant portion of returns are associated with YouTubers and other media content creators.

However, it should be noted that these reports are anecdotal and not representative of the entire customer base. As of the provided information, there is no official statement from Apple regarding the return rate or the overall satisfaction of Vision Pro headset users.

Apple's return policy allows customers to return products within 14 days of purchase, assuming the product is returned complete. Given this generous policy, it is not unexpected to observe some level of returns for any product, especially one as polarizing as the Vision Pro headsets.

As of this writing on February 16, it appears that the return rate for Apple's Vision Pro headsets remains steady and doesn't deviate significantly from the rates observed for other Apple products. The situation will continue to be monitored, and any changes or updates regarding the return rate will be reported accordingly.

It is worth noting that the AppleInsider staff, who have been closely tracking this situation, have confirmed that none of them have returned their Apple Vision Pro headsets.