Metallica and Apple to Release VR Concert Experience

In an innovative move that fuses cutting-edge technology with live music experiences, legendary rock band Metallica and tech giant Apple have collaborated to launch a groundbreaking immersive virtual reality concert experience. Set to debut on March 14, the VR concert film, simply titled “Metallica,” was filmed during the band's renowned “M72 World Tour.” Crucially, this was the final concert of the tour, giving fans around the world the chance to experience the energetic climax from the comfort of their own homes. The film features full performances of Metallica's timeless hits “Whiplash,” “One,” and “Enter Sandman,” utilizing Apple’s innovative high-resolution 180-degree video technology and Spatial Audio to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience.

Fans are offered intimate access to vantage points ranging from as close as the band’s iconic “Snake Pit” to broad views of the massive stage setup. Achieving this required the construction of a custom stage plot with 14 Apple Immersive Video cameras employing a mix of stabilized, cable-suspended, and remote-controlled dolly systems. This meticulous setup ensures that every powerful riff and enthralling drumbeat can be experienced with astonishing clarity.

Despite the immersive experience being offered for free, the requisite technology comes at a significant cost. Ownership of an Apple Vision Pro headset, priced from approximately $3,499, is necessary to partake in the full VR concert. This exclusivity aligns with Apple’s branding as a high-end tech provider, although the hefty price tag could limit access primarily to tech enthusiasts and dedicated fans prepared to make the investment. For those unable to secure the technology, Metallica has also made a standalone EP, “Metallica Live from Mexico City,” available via Apple Music, allowing fans to enjoy the audio from the performance.

The decision to film the concert in Mexico City, known for its fervent and passionate Metallica fan base, was a calculated choice. According to Metallica’s drummer, Lars Ulrich, the experience of performing in Mexico City is uniquely exhilarating, with an audience known for its unguarded enthusiasm and intense engagement. Speaking at a SXSW conference, Ulrich remarked on the surreal experience of seeing the high-tech footage, noting the delight and self-consciousness evoked by the technology — particularly when observing his own drumming antics.

In addition to the immersive concert experience, Apple has ensured broader engagement by providing previews of the concert as part of the Apple Vision Pro demo in Apple stores worldwide. Beginning on the launch date, March 14, individuals curious about the VR capabilities can head to these stores to experience a glimpse of the concert and explore the advanced settings of the headset.