After launching its AR/VR headset Vision Pro at the WWDC 2023 in September, it looks like Apple is already working on the second generation of the device. Apple Vision Pro is said to retain the overall design of its predecessor with a few tweaks. However, the biggest change could be the price of Vision Pro 2, which is said to be more affordable.
The original Vision Pro will go on sale in 2024, though a high price point of US$3499 (approximately Rs 2,91,000) makes it out of reach for many. Apple’s AR/VR headset comes packed with features like spatial computing, EyeSight, 12 cameras, EyeSight, two micro-OLED displays, and more. Apple could simplify bands, switch to lower-resolution displays, and reduce the number of sensors and cameras to make the Vision Pro 2 more affordable.
Apple Vision Pro 2 Already In The Works, Could Be More Affordable
A MacRumors report attributing a reliable source claims that Apple Vision Pro could retain the design of the original Vision Pro, with a few changes here and there. As per the report, the second-generation Vision Pro could likely come with an external speaker. Due to the lack of in-built speakers, the device could feature flat temples.
Further, the rear straps could be simplified when it comes to design to make the Vision Pro 2 more affordable. The original Vision Pro has two straps – a primary one that has a braided design and goes around the head, and a secondary band that goes over the head. According to the report, the primary braided band could be replaced by a flat band on the Vision Pro 2 as a more streamlined strap could be easier to mass produce.
Further, in terms of sensors, the Vision Pro 2 could pack compass, ambient light sensor, magnetometer, accelerometer, and gyroscope. This is the same as the Vision Pro, which also features five sensors. The connectivity options on the Vision Pro 2 tipped are support for Bluetooth v5.0, Wi-Fi, and ultra-low latency studio (ULLA).
Apart from this, the next-generation Vision Pro could also sport two micro OLED displays, which is the same number as the Vision Pro, though Apple could switch to lower-resolution displays for the device. In addition, it is said to come with one TrueDepth camera, four computer vision (CV) cameras, and two RGB cameras. More features expected for Vision Pro 2 are two low light infrared illuminators and semi-automatic interpupillary distance (IPD) adjustment.
The MacRumors report further adds that the Vision Pro 2 could be released in late 2025 or early 2026, given it is scheduled for product validation testing (PVT) in 2025. Of course, the information needs to be taken with a pinch of salt as Apple has yet to officially confirm any details.
Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman previously revealed in his weekly Power On newsletter that Apple Vision Pro 2 could be launched at a price that is several hundred dollars cheaper than the Vision Pro. He added that Apple is aiming at an official launch at the end of 2025.
Apple could further cut costs on the Vision Pro 2 by switching to AirPods for spatial audio instead of built-in audio pods. The glass and aluminium alloy materials on the original headset could be replaced by cheaper materials. Instead of micro-OLED displays, Apple could use lower-resolution, without compromising on the EyeSight feature.
