Last week, during WWDC, Apple officially announced its mixed reality headset, The Vision Pro, which is set to introduce “spatial computing” to consumers. Apple confirmed that the Vision Pro will be released early next year and will retail for $3,499. The launch will start in the US. Although the device, Apple is said to be working hard on a more affordable version of the Vision Pro.
In the latest edition of the Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple plans to release a more affordable AR/ VR product by the end of 2025. At the same time, Apple is also working on a new version of the Vision Pro with a faster processor for even better performance.
See also: Vision Pro: Apple officially introduced the mixed reality headset
After revealing the Vision Pro name, Gurman speculates that the more affordable version could be called the “Apple Vision” or perhaps the “Apple Vision One.” While it’s not certain how Apple will manage to lower the price, Gurman has a few ideas.
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In the original Vision Pro model, the most expensive components are the M2 and R1, the two 4K micro-LED , and the hardware related to the cameras and sensors. To reduce costs, Apple could use lower-quality displays, a lower-spec processor, and a smaller array of cameras and sensors. Additionally, it could remove the spatial audio speakers from the headset and encourage users to use their own AirPods Pro for audio. In addition, the company could simplify the design and remove other elements. However, Gurman points out that there are a few areas where Apple is unlikely to compromise:
“But there are a few areas where I think Apple won't compromise for a cheaper Apple Vision Pro. The external display, known as EyeSight , and the system eye and hand tracking are the core of the Apple Vision, much like a touchscreen on an iPhone. I would expect a cheaper model to retain these features.“.
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Mixed reality headsets are innovative pieces of technology that are changing the way we interact with the world around us, and as technology continues to develop, they will continue to evolve and new applications. Apple's new Vision Pro promises to revolutionize the mixed reality headset space. However, its high price may be a big problem for most people. A cheaper version is certainly welcome, although we can't be sure that this cheaper version could actually be released in 2025. There were already many delays in the official announcement of the original Vision Pro.
Source: 9to5mac.com
