Written by Nick Gambino
Apple is already setting its sights on a more budget-friendly mixed-reality headset to follow the impending release of the Vision Pro headset, which has yet to hit the market.
With the Vision Pro commanding a substantial $3,500 price tag, it is no surprise that Apple is keenly aware of the need for a more affordable alternative. Interestingly, they are working on a version that could be priced between $1,500 and $2,500. Although still relatively steep for a VR headset, Apple is not known for offering low-cost hardware.
According to Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple is contemplating the necessary trade-offs to reduce the cost, which would manifest in the second generation of the Vision Pro.
To cut expenses, they are considering eliminating EyeSight, a feature that allows others to observe the wearer’s eyes when using the headset. When activated, it resembles a pair of ski goggles. While it may not be the most fashionable feature, it plays a crucial role in seamlessly integrating the product into the user’s life and reducing isolation.
In addition to removing EyeSight, Apple is exploring using an iPhone processor chip instead of the more potent M chip, thereby reducing performance. As expected for a more affordable version of the Vision Pro, they plan to minimize display resolution and trim the number of cameras and sensors.
Apart from lowering the cost, one advantage of shedding these features is that it will result in a lighter and more comfortable mixed reality headset for users.
It’s amusing that we are already discussing the next-generation version when we have yet to experience the first-gen Vision Pro, set for an early 2024 release. However, the sticker shock from the initial device’s high price tag makes it logical to speculate about when Apple will offer a more wallet-friendly headset.
