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On March 10, 2025, Apple unveiled a groundbreaking immersive concert experience featuring Metallica, exclusively for the Apple Vision Pro. Launched on March 14, this project captures the raw energy of the band’s M72 World Tour finale in Mexico City, offering fans a front-row seat to performances of iconic tracks like “Whiplash,” “One,” and “Enter Sandman.” Filmed with Apple’s cutting-edge Immersive Video technology, this 25-minute experience leverages ultra-high-resolution 180-degree video and Spatial Audio to place viewers onstage, backstage, and amidst the crowd. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of spatial computing, Metallica’s latest venture signals a transformative moment for live music entertainment. Here’s how this collaboration is setting a new standard.
A Visual and Sonic Leap Forward
Shot during Metallica’s sold-out Mexico City shows in September 2024, the experience was crafted using a custom stage setup with 14 Apple Immersive Video cameras. These included stabilized, cable-suspended, and remote-controlled dolly systems, capturing every angle—from the pulsating Snake Pit to sweeping overhead views of 65,000 fans. The result is a visceral, 8K-resolution journey that immerses viewers in the band’s signature intensity, with Spatial Audio enhancing the realism. Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich called it “game-changing,” noting, “Seeing our concert like this, with the energy of the Mexico City fans—it’s super fun and pushes boundaries.”
Unprecedented Access to the Band
This isn’t just a concert film; it’s an intimate encounter. Apple Vision Pro users can stand inches from James Hetfield as he growls through “Enter Sandman,” hover above Lars Ulrich’s drum kit, or join Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo mid-performance. A standout moment—highlighted in the trailer—shows Hetfield engaging a fan in the crowd, a raw interaction that lingers as the camera captures the fan’s emotional reaction. This level of closeness, paired with documentary-style interludes featuring band commentary, offers a fresh perspective on Metallica’s live legacy, making it a must-see for both diehard fans and tech enthusiasts.
Beyond the Headset: A Multi-Platform Celebration
While the immersive video is exclusive to Vision Pro, Apple extended the experience with the M72 World Tour: Mexico City EP, released on Apple Music on March 14 in Spatial Audio. This ensures broader accessibility for fans without the $3,500 headset. Apple Stores worldwide also began offering free demos of the “Whiplash” performance, letting curious visitors sample the technology. “Apple Immersive Video transforms storytelling,” said Tor Myhren, Apple’s VP of Marketing Communications. “With Metallica, you’re not just watching—you’re there, front row and backstage with one of the biggest bands ever.”
The Future of Concerts in Spatial Computing
Metallica’s Vision Pro debut builds on Apple’s growing library of immersive content, following releases like The Weeknd’s “Open Hearts” and Alicia Keys’ performances. Yet, this collaboration stands out for its scale and emotional depth, hinting at a future where concerts transcend physical venues. At a time when the Vision Pro’s high price limits its reach, such high-profile projects underscore Apple’s commitment to spatial computing as a medium for art and entertainment. As of April 2, 2025, this release continues to generate buzz, proving that technology and music can converge to redefine fan experiences.
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Apple Newsroom: Apple Unveils Immersive Concert Experience with Metallica for Apple Vision Pro