Apple is reportedly working on AR glasses and a cheaper Vision headset

 

Less than a year after its launch, Apple may be realizing that the Vision Pro isn't what people want. The company has informed suppliers that they are shifting focus towards a more affordable AR/VR headset set to release in 2025, rather than working on a Vision Pro successor. The Vision Pro, which was released in February 2024, received positive reviews but had its drawbacks, including a high starting price of $3,499 ($4,800 for the top-tier model). The upcoming AR/VR headset will maintain a high-resolution display but will reduce other components to make it at least 33% lighter. Weight was a concern highlighted by ZDNET Editor in Chief Jason Hiner during the Vision Pro's launch. Apple is also considering a more budget-friendly headset priced between $1,500 to $2,500, as well as renewing efforts to develop its own AR glasses. While a potential launch date of 2027 has been mentioned, Apple insiders doubt its feasibility. Challenges in developing smart glasses include reallocating staff from the glasses project to the AR/VR headset and the difficulty of fitting advanced technology into small frames. Despite setbacks, Apple's smart glasses project has been in progress for years, with Meta's successful Ray Ban smart glasses serving as an example for Apple to follow. If the Vision Pro fell short of expectations, Apple may question the viability of cheaper alternatives in the mixed reality market. This uncertainty could lead Apple to reconsider its efforts in the mixed reality space.