The mixed reality headset market is heating up as reports emerge about Apple's next-generation headset. After apparently halting production of the first-generation Apple Vision Pro earlier this year, the tech giant appears to be shifting focus to its successor, with new information suggesting the Apple Vision Pro 2 could arrive sooner than expected.
Production Already Underway
According to recent reports from Chinese outlet ITHome, key components for the Apple Vision Pro 2 have already entered production. Multiple independent sources claim that crucial parts including display panels and the external casing are being manufactured, signaling that Apple is moving forward with its next-generation mixed reality headset despite previous rumors of development suspension. Lens Technology is reportedly serving as the exclusive supplier for the headset's glass panels, while Changying Precision has been tasked with producing the exterior components.
Known suppliers for Apple Vision Pro 2 components:
- Lens Technology: Exclusive supplier for glass panels
- Changying Precision: Responsible for exterior components
- Various unnamed manufacturers: Increasing production rates for unspecified components
Supply Chain Acceleration
The production timeline appears to be accelerating, with several unnamed manufacturers reportedly increasing their production rates to fulfill Apple's orders. This surge in manufacturing activity suggests Apple is positioning itself for a product launch in the latter part of 2025, aligning with earlier predictions from industry analysts including Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who both previously indicated a potential release window between late 2025 and early 2026.
M5 Chip Integration
One of the most significant upgrades expected in the Apple Vision Pro 2 is the inclusion of Apple's M5 chip. Reports about the M5's production timeline have varied, with some sources suggesting mass production has already begun, while others indicate full-scale manufacturing will commence in the second half of 2025. The M5 chip is also expected to power updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, suggesting a coordinated release strategy across Apple's premium product lines.
Design and Features
While the external appearance of the Apple Vision Pro 2 is expected to remain largely similar to its predecessor, most of the significant changes will likely be internal. Beyond the upgraded M5 chip, specific details about other hardware improvements remain scarce. The focus on internal upgrades rather than a design overhaul could indicate Apple's strategy to refine the user experience while maintaining the distinctive aesthetic established by the first-generation model.
Expected features of Apple Vision Pro 2:
- M5 chip integration (same chip expected in upcoming MacBook Pro models)
- Similar external design to first-generation model
- Primary changes expected to be internal improvements
Affordable Vision Pro Delayed
Interestingly, the reports make no mention of the previously rumored lower-cost Apple Vision Pro variant. This aligns with Ming-Chi Kuo's assertion that the more affordable version has been delayed beyond 2027, suggesting Apple is prioritizing its premium offering before expanding to more accessible price points. This strategy may reflect Apple's focus on perfecting the technology before attempting to reach a broader market.
Market Response to First Generation
The accelerated development of the Apple Vision Pro 2 comes despite reported underwhelming sales of the first-generation model. Earlier reports had suggested that poor market reception might have led to a suspension of the sequel's development, but the current production activities indicate Apple remains committed to its mixed reality ambitions. The company appears determined to iterate and improve upon its initial offering rather than abandoning the product category.
Launch Timeline
While component production is underway, consumers should temper expectations regarding an immediate launch. Even with the M5 chip potentially debuting later this year, the Apple Vision Pro 2's release might not immediately follow. Apple typically maintains careful coordination between chip availability and product launches, suggesting the headset could arrive in late 2025 at the earliest, with pricing details still unknown.