The future of Apple’s Vision Pro, its mixed reality headset, is looking much clearer now. Reports indicate that Apple is developing a lighter and more affordable version of the Vision Pro. Despite the headset’s technological brilliance, it failed to achieve commercial success, sparking concerns about whether the company would discontinue the product. However, if the report holds true, that’s no longer a concern.
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has revealed that Apple is working on two distinct models of Vision Pro, rather than just a simple hardware refresh.
One version of the Vision Pro Apple is developing would connect to a Mac, allowing users to stream their Mac’s display. This model is expected to focus on enterprise applications, offering a low-latency wired connection that’s currently unattainable with the wireless setup. According to Gurman, this version could be especially useful for professionals using the device for in-flight simulators or to view imagery during surgeries.
The other version, which is the lighter and more affordable Vision Pro everyone has been hoping for, is also in the works. Currently priced at around $3500 and weighing 1.5 pounds, the Vision Pro is heavy on both the wallet and the wearer’s neck and face. This weight is one of the reasons the headset struggled commercially, with many users resorting to third-party straps for added support to reduce fatigue.
With a lighter and more affordable version of the Vision Pro, Apple would be better positioned to compete with rivals like Meta, which currently offers cheaper headsets and glasses. However, there are no additional details on how Apple plans to achieve this cost reduction.
In addition to the Vision Pro, Apple is also developing augmented reality (AR) glasses and aims to release them before Meta. According to Gurman, AR glasses are a top priority for CEO Tim Cook, who has made their development a key focus.
While the AR glasses are still a few years away, the two versions of Vision Pro should be available soon. There have been rumors that the lighter and cheaper version could enter mass production for a release between this fall and next spring, though Gurman has not reported anything concrete on this timeline.
