Apple has been toiling away on a more budget-friendly version of its Vision Pro headset for some time now. The tech giant has encountered obstacles in reducing costs without axing essential features, which has delayed the release. However, fresh reports indicate Apple is developing not one, but two variations of its head-mounted wearable. The first model is set to cater to a broader audience with an attractive lower price point. The second, designed for enterprise use, offers advanced capabilities via tethering.
The more affordable Apple Vision Pro aims to tackle two key issues—price and weight. While official pricing details have yet to be disclosed, it’s speculated that this version could hover around $1,600, akin to a high-end iPhone. This pricing strategy is expected to appeal to consumers who found the original $3,499 model prohibitively expensive.
Weight reduction is another focus for the new version, potentially alleviating head strain during use. Though there’s no confirmation if Apple will employ lighter materials like plastic, it’s rumored the device may feature a less premium display and an A-series processor, along with other compromises to cut costs. As a result, this version could align more closely with competitors like the Meta Quest 3, which is significantly more affordable.
The enterprise-oriented variant of the Apple Vision Pro is a different beast altogether. This model is intended for professional applications, offering support for specialized apps developed by various companies. Its tethering functionality can connect to a Mac, enabling ultra-low latency, a crucial feature for high-stakes activities such as surgical procedures or flight simulations. While past iterations included transparent lenses, the upcoming version will retain the sophisticated pass-through technology found in the current Vision Pro lineup.
Although an official unveiling date for these new products remains unconfirmed, there’s speculation that Apple might reveal them by the end of the year. With these developments, Apple seems poised to broaden its reach in the mixed-reality market, offering solutions for both general consumers and professional sectors.
