Most recently, we heard about how the Cupertino-based tech giant is working on the second-generation mixed-reality headset when the first hasn’t even come out yet. Now, we’ve got more information about how the company is funneling its resources to make a more affordable version of the $3,500 Vision Pro.
Apple Could Remove The External Display To Drop The Vision Pro’s Price
In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman writes about Vision Pro’s affordable follow-up. To lower its manufacturing cost, Apple will most likely remove the external display that blocks light when the user is involved in the mixed reality experience (while glowing in abstract patterns) and goes transparent when the user wants to interact with the surroundings. Those could bring down the price point to $1,500 and $2,500, which is still quite expensive.
The Vision Pro’s affordable version should also feature an iPhone-grade chip (instead of the dual-chip design), have fewer cameras, and have inferior screens with lower resolution per eye. Per Gurman, Apple has shifted staff away from developing standalone augmented reality glasses, something that’s deemed too technically challenging. We can also speculate that the development of AR-only glasses would be much more expensive and, therefore, require the company to set the price high, keeping it from the masses.
The Vision Pro (2nd Generation) Is Already In The Works
Along with the cheaper model, Apple is also working on another iteration of the Vision Pro. Recently, Gurman wrote about how Apple discovered that the original AR headset is causing neck fatigue due to its weight. Hence, the next model will be lighter and smaller, making it easier to wear for prolonged durations. Further, the company is also exploring its options to integrate prescription glasses, as working with a third party isn’t as easy as it thought.
The Competition Is Doing Wonders
A major portion of Apple’s efforts to make its headset more affordable and lightweight is to compete with the current market leader, Meta. According to a report by Counterpoint Research, Meta secured 50 percent of the shipments market share in Q2 2023.
Further, the Zuckerburg-led company recently announced its Quest 3, an affordable mixed-reality headset starting at $499.99, which is way more practical for anyone. Although Apple is often late to certain parties, when it joins, more often than not, it adds a lot of shine and glitter.
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