Cupertino, CA – Apple is reportedly developing a new, lighter, and more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset, potentially launching as early as late 2025, according to a recent report by Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter. The move signals Apple’s ambition to broaden the appeal of its groundbreaking spatial computing device, which currently carries a premium price tag.
Gurman, a well-respected Apple analyst, detailed two potential successors to the current Vision Pro. One is the aforementioned lighter and less expensive model, while the other is a wired version designed to offload processing power to a connected Mac. The lighter model is expected to debut first, potentially hitting the market between late 2025 and the first half of 2026.
The exact positioning of this new device remains somewhat unclear. It’s uncertain whether it will be marketed as a direct replacement for the existing Apple Vision Pro or as a more accessible, non-Pro variant. Speculation has circulated for some time regarding a lighter Vision headset, with potential names like Apple Vision or Apple Vision Air being floated.
To achieve a lighter design, crucial for user comfort during extended wear, Apple is reportedly considering a shift in internal materials. Replacing aluminum with titanium for structural components could enhance strength while reducing weight. The external casing, however, is expected to remain aluminum.
Further differentiating the lighter model from its Pro counterpart, Apple may adopt a distinct aesthetic. A black color scheme, reminiscent of the iPhone 5 era, could provide a clear visual distinction.
The development of a more accessible Vision Pro aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of democratizing technology and expanding its user base. By addressing the weight and price barriers of the current model, Apple aims to bring spatial computing to a wider audience.
Looking Ahead:
The potential launch of a lighter, more affordable Vision Pro in late 2025 or early 2026 could significantly impact the burgeoning spatial computing market. It will be crucial to observe how Apple balances performance and features with the need for a more accessible price point. The success of this new model will likely determine the long-term trajectory of the Vision product line and its role in shaping the future of computing.
References:
- Gurman, M. (2024, April 27). Power On Newsletter. Bloomberg. (Note: Specific URL not available as it’s a newsletter).
- IT之家. (2024, April 27). 古尔曼：苹果 Vision Pro 轻量版最早有望今年末上市. Retrieved from [Insert original IT之家 article URL here].
Views: 1