The second version of Apple’s Vision Pro spatial computing headset may bring improvements to image quality, physical design, and—most crucially—could introduce a lower-cost model. Here’s what we know so far.
When Could the Vision Pro 2 Be Released?
The first Apple Vision Pro came out in early 2024, so we don’t expect the Apple Vision Pro 2 until later this year or 2026.
Here’s why the rumors are growing:
Is Apple Even Considering the Release of Any Kind of Headset?
Despite mixed reactions and reportedly weak sales from the first model, Apple does seem to be seriously considering a second version of the Vision Pro headset. While the original drew attention for its high-end design and cool features, its price and limited use cases have affected its adoption rate.
But Apple rarely abandons whole product categories after just one release, especially when it’s tied to supposedly emerging tech like spatial computing. Rumors and reports suggest that the company is already working on a more affordable and/or refined version of the headset, so it seems clear to us that Apple isn’t done with headsets just yet.
Apple Vision Pro Headset.
Apple
Our Thoughts on Potential Vision Pro 2 Features
One of the most intriguing whispers out there, from noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, is that there may be two Vision Pro 2 models:
The second-generation Apple AR/MR may have high-end and more-affordable models, which will launch in [the first half of 2025], and component suppliers will start shipping in [the second half of 2024].
Vision Pro 2 High-End Model
Rumor is that the high-end model of the Apple Vision Pro 2, which will be the direct successor to the first-generation model, may deliver:
- Faster processor: By the time the Apple Vision Pro 2 arrives, Apple’s M5 processor should be available. The headset could adopt that upgrade over the current M2 processor for improved performance.
- Improved interior lenses: Ming-Chi Kuo also expects that the 2nd generation, high-end model will have new lenses inside the headset to improve the quality of images seen by the user.
- Micro-LED screens: Those lenses could be OLEDs, according to MacRumors, which would deliver brighter images and reduce battery consumption.
- Updated physical design: Speculation suggests that an updated physical design could see the Apple Vision Pro 2 being lighter or even taking an updated approach to its battery.
- More AI: Given the ever-growing prominence of AI, expect visionOS 3 to include additional Apple Intelligence features.
Vision Pro 2 Low-End Model
If the lower-cost, lower-performance version of the Apple Vision Pro 2 comes out, rumors suggest it could differ from the pricer model in these ways:
- Slower processor: Apple could cut costs by giving this device a slower processor. If the other model upgrades to the M5 chip, this one could stick with the M2 or include the M4. Keeping the older chip could reduce the AI features available to the headset due to its lower processing power.
- Lower-quality displays: Another area where cost could be reduced is the lenses inside the headset. If the high-end model uses OLEDs and other cutting-edge tech, expect fewer options here.
- Cheaper materials: Often, when Apple makes a high- and low-priced version of the same product, the lower-cost model is made from different, less-expensive materials. That could be the case with this model, too.
- Reduced subtle polish features: To make a more affordable model worth it to Apple, it will have to scale back on some features. We think there may be fewer cameras for its mixed-reality functions, and it may not have full functionality with advanced options for AirPods, for example.
