Apple's Vision Pro headset didn't meet its expected hype. Though the company gave the product a standard launch party to attract more customers, sales numbers paint a disappointing picture: the high-tech wearable did not succeed commercially.
Apple, however, isn't abandoning the mixed-reality fantasy just yet. Based on various reports, the tech giant is already preparing a second model to debut before the end of 2025.
Apple's Vision Pro Has a Rocky Launch in Mixed Reality
Apple's first attempt into the AR/VR space was greeted with interest and enthusiasm. Yet, following its initial launch, the Vision Pro lost steam fast. Premium pricing, poor app support, and a lack of an obvious consumer use case undermined its traction, according to GSM Arena.
For all that it was one of the most sophisticated mixed-reality headsets available, it just didn't connect with the mass market.
Now, Apple appears to be changing direction. Insiders say that manufacturing of the original Vision Pro is being phased out and could officially cease by the end of 2024.
With inventories probably adequate to get through the rest of the year, Apple is concentrating on its next move to improve the next iteration.
Incremental Vision Pro Upgrade Already Underway
Instead of debuting a revolutionary new device, Apple is taking a more measured strategy with its next Vision Pro 2.0. They will be releasing a new version that is an incremental one, with minimal physical redesign. The highlight upgrade? A next-generation processor—the Apple M5 chip.
As MacRumors spotted via IT Home, suppliers have apparently gone into large-scale production of major components such as new housings, display screens, and internal wiring. Some partners are "rushing" to Apple's strict timelines, pointing to a late 2025 release window.
M5 Chip: The Only Major Upgrade on the Table
Although there was much speculation for a slimmer, cheaper, and feature-laden variant of the Vision Pro, these improvements are unlikely to come to fruition this year. Apple's plans to produce a radically better headset have allegedly run into development setbacks, causing a hold-up on a proper "Vision Pro 2."
Instead, Apple is wagering on the M5 chip to provide a snappier, more efficient user experience with superior performance and better efficiency. While not an utter reinvention, this change would still have valuable improvements for developers and fans committed to Apple's vision for spatial computing.
What to Expect from Vision Pro 2.0
In November, Tech Times mentioned in a report that with the Vision Pro's poor sales, Apple could be working on a new model. The upcoming version will be cheaper than the first version.
However, this report might not be aligned with the latest one. Since Apple wants to have good sales for the Vision Pro 2, it should introduce premium features for the users.
To achieve good sales for the newer Vision Pro headset, Apple will have to phase out the original model. This way, the new one will continue to progress as new developments roll out.
