Next-generation Apple Vision Pro may require connection to an iPhone or Mac

The revolutionary Apple Vision Pro, Apple’s first mixed reality viewer, has generated great enthusiasm among technology enthusiasts. However, its high price and high-end device design limited its accessibility to a wide audience. Now, according to recent reports, Apple is reportedly working on a more affordable and accessible version of its visor, with some major changes from the original model.

Vision for the future: Apple Vision

According to the latest rumors, Apple is reportedly developing a new model of the visor, tentatively called “Apple Vision,” which would be cheaper and aimed at a mass market. The main difference from the current Apple Vision Pro would be the need to be connected to an iPhone or Mac for computing power, rather than being a completely standalone device.

Reduction in cost and weight

This approach should result in a significant reduction in manufacturing costs and the overall weight of the device. Without the need to incorporate powerful processors and batteries inside the viewer, the design could be slimmer and lighter, making it more comfortable to wear for long periods.

Compromises on functionality

However, this choice would also entail some compromises on functionality. For example, it has been speculated that the EyeSight feature, which allows the user’s gaze to be shared with people in the room, could be removed to keep costs down. The quality of the internal VR screens might also be slightly lower than the premium model.

More affordable prices

Despite these compromises, Apple’s goal would be to offer the new visor at a price range of 1,500 to 2,000 euros, making it much more affordable than the current Apple Vision Pro, which costs 3,499 euros. This move could greatly expand the pool of users interested in mixed reality.

Design evolution

While the Apple team works on the cheaper version of the visor, work on the successor to the current Apple Vision Pro, internally named N109, continues apace. This second-generation model is expected to benefit from more powerful processors, likely based on the new M4 chip family, and improved external cameras.

Weight and volume reduction

In addition, Apple aims to further reduce the weight and overall size of the viewer while maintaining a similar aesthetic appearance to the current model. This design optimization effort is key to improving user comfort during extended use.

Launch timing

According to the latest rumors, the new “Apple Vision” visor could be launched by the end of 2025, while the successor to the current Apple Vision Pro is not expected to be unveiled until the end of 2026. This longer time frame for the high-end model reflects Apple’s emphasis on refining the product to deliver a higher-quality experience.

Market potential

Despite the trade-offs, the launch of a more affordable version of Apple’s mixed reality viewer could prove crucial to the widespread adoption of the technology. Making the product cheaper and easier to use could attract a much wider audience, paving the way for more mass-market adoption of mixed reality.

Challenges and opportunities

However, the road to success will not be without obstacles. Apple will have to strike the right balance between accessibility and functionality, avoiding overly compromising the user experience while maintaining competitive pricing. It will also be critical to ensure seamless integration and minimal latency between the viewer and connected devices to deliver a smooth and immersive experience.

Market Implications.

The launch of a more affordable version of the Apple Vision Pro visor could have a significant impact on the entire mixed reality industry. This move could prompt other manufacturers to follow Apple’s example by developing more affordable and accessible solutions for the general public. This could accelerate the adoption of mixed reality and open up new opportunities for application and content developers.

Regulatory and interoperability challenges

However, there is no shortage of regulatory and interoperability challenges. In the European Union, for example, the Digital Markets Act could require Apple to allow other brands’ devices to be fully integrated with its viewer. This could be an added complication for the company, which will have to find a way to balance user experience with regulatory requirements.

Article source here.