Less than a year after the launch of the Vision Pro headset, Apple seems to be changing course. Reports from The Information suggest that Apple has informed suppliers that they are no longer working on a successor to the Vision Pro. Instead, the company is shifting its focus towards developing a more affordable AR/VR headset set to be released in 2025.
The Vision Pro, which hit the market in February 2024, received generally positive reviews. However, with a base price of $3,499 (or $4,800 for the fully loaded version), it was not accessible to all consumers. The new AR/VR headset in the works is expected to retain the high-resolution display of the Vision Pro while making other components more cost-effective. One of the key goals is to reduce the weight of the headset by at least 33%, addressing a common criticism highlighted by ZDNET Editor in Chief Jason Hiner.
In addition to the development of the more affordable AR/VR headset, Apple is also exploring the possibility of launching a cheaper headset in the price range of $1,500 to $2,500, as reported by Bloomberg. Furthermore, Apple has reportedly reignited efforts to create its own AR glasses. While a potential launch date of around 2027 has been mentioned, insiders at Apple do not see this as a realistic target. Challenges in developing smart glasses include the need to pack advanced technology into a small form factor, a task that is not without its difficulties.
The development of Apple’s smart glasses has been a long and tumultuous journey, with the project experiencing starts and stops over the years. Meta, formerly known as Facebook, recently introduced its Ray-Ban smart glasses with some success, demonstrating that the concept can be executed effectively. Apple may be facing questions about the viability of mixed reality technology if even a high-end offering like the Vision Pro did not meet expectations.
As Apple navigates the shifting landscape of AR/VR technology, the company is making strategic decisions about its product lineup. While the Vision Pro may not have achieved the desired level of success, Apple is doubling down on developing more accessible and consumer-friendly offerings in the AR/VR space. The road ahead for Apple’s foray into augmented and virtual reality remains uncertain, but the company’s commitment to innovation and user experience is unwavering.
