Despite mixed reception of the original Vision Pro, Apple appears committed to advancing its mixed reality ambitions, with significant developments on the horizon for its next-generation headset and a potential budget variant.
 |
|---|
| The next-generation Apple Vision Pro headset reflects Apple's commitment to advancing its mixed reality technology |
Next-Generation Vision Pro Details
The second-generation Apple Vision Pro is reportedly slated for release as early as 2025, featuring Apple's yet-to-be-announced M5 chip. This information comes from respected industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, whose track record in predicting Apple's product roadmap has been notably reliable. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has corroborated these claims, confirming that a chip upgrade is indeed in the works for the next iteration.
Budget Model Faces Significant Delays
In a surprising development, the anticipated more affordable version of the Vision Pro (potentially called Vision Pro SE) has been pushed back considerably. According to Kuo's latest report, this budget-friendly variant won't see the light of day until after 2027, marking a significant delay in Apple's mixed reality accessibility plans.
Current Vision Pro Performance and Market Reception
The original Vision Pro, while technologically impressive, has faced challenges in the market largely due to its premium $3,500 price point. The device has seen numerous returns within Apple's 14-day window, with price being cited as a primary factor. Even Apple CEO Tim Cook has acknowledged that the current Vision Pro is primarily targeted at early adopters rather than mainstream consumers.
Future Direction: Smart Glasses
In an interesting pivot, Apple is reportedly exploring the development of smart glasses that would function as an iPhone accessory. This approach would offload computing tasks to the iPhone, allowing for a lighter, more practical form factor. This strategy mirrors the successful approach taken with the Apple Watch, potentially offering a more accessible entry point into Apple's vision-based ecosystem.
Market Strategy and Outlook
Apple's decision to proceed with a high-end successor while delaying the budget model suggests a continued focus on premium experiences over market accessibility. This strategy, while potentially limiting initial adoption, aligns with Apple's traditional approach of establishing technological superiority before pursuing broader market penetration.
