As Apple winds down production of its first-generation Vision Pro by year-end, speculation abounds about their next big leap in mixed-reality technology. Rumors are swirling that a more affordable headset is on the horizon, potentially debuting in 2025. However, enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option might be in for a long wait, with some analysts suggesting production could be delayed until 2027 or beyond.
Currently, the upcoming Vision Pro is set to replace its predecessor, promising exciting advancements, notably a robust chipset upgrade. The anticipated hold-up for the budget version is attributed not just to pricing challenges but to the need for compelling use cases that justify consumer buy-in. The potential $2,000 model might feature an A-series chip and display compromises when compared to its pricier counterparts, but the market’s readiness for such a device remains in question.
Prominent industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared insights indicating that Apple is focusing on launching a second-generation Vision Pro in 2025, which will be equipped with the powerful M5 chipset. This iteration is expected to bring innovations like spatial computing and enhanced Apple Intelligence support. The mass production of this device is projected for the latter half of 2025.
Comparisons have been drawn between the Vision Pro and Apple’s HomePod strategy, where attempts to broaden market appeal were met with limited success. Apple CEO Tim Cook has openly stated that the latest headset isn’t designed for mass consumption but rather for those eager to experience cutting-edge tech.
Nevertheless, Apple is actively enhancing its headset offering with the rollout of more features in visionOS 2, including a Travel Mode and a Mac Virtual Display for an expansive ultrawide experience. While the evolution of this product segment is gradual, there’s optimism that one day, conditions will be right for Apple to bring a more affordable Vision Pro to market.
