Less than a year after the debut of the Vision Pro, Apple appears to be altering its course in the virtual reality (VR) space. The company has reportedly informed suppliers that it will not be pursuing a successor to the Vision Pro, instead directing its efforts towards a more affordable AR/VR headset scheduled for release in 2025. This strategic shift comes as a response to the lukewarm reception and slow sales of the high-end Vision Pro. Launched in February 2024, the Vision Pro received mostly positive reviews but faced criticism for its flaws and a steep base price of $3,499 ($4,800 for the maxed-out version).
According to a report by The Information, while the new AR/VR headset will retain the high-resolution display, key components will be trimmed to reduce costs. Apple’s goal is to achieve a 33% weight reduction in the new headset, a significant improvement acknowledged by ZDNet Editor in Chief Jason Hiner following the debut of the Vision Pro. Hiner specifically highlighted the weight issue as needing improvement.
Jay Peters, a reputable news editor focused on technology, video games, and virtual worlds, reported that Apple may no longer be pursuing the development of a new high-end Vision headset. Instead, the company is reportedly exploring ways to lower component costs for the existing model and is actively working on a more affordable Vision headset targeted for release by the end of 2025. The original Vision Pro, launched earlier this year, was commended for its performance as a VR headset; however, it faced similar drawbacks to other VR devices and commanded a steep price starting at $3,499. Weight was also a noticeable concern, as Peters experienced when trying the Vision Pro at an Apple Store.
This strategic shift by Apple reflects the continuous evolution of the VR market and the company’s efforts to address consumer preferences and market demands for VR technology. As Apple navigates the landscape of virtual reality, the focus on a more affordable AR/VR headset signals the company’s intention to cater to a broader consumer base and address key pain points highlighted by both industry experts and potential consumers.
As tech enthusiasts and consumers anticipate the unveiling of Apple’s more accessible AR/VR headset in 2025, the industry eagerly awaits the company’s next move and the impact it could have on the ever-evolving domain of virtual reality technology.
