Apple Vision Pro: One year later – What's next?

Sunday marked the first anniversary of the launch of the Apple Vision Pro. The $3,500 AR/VR headset has been available to consumers for 365 days. But while Apple presented the device as a revolutionary step into the future, reports show that sales figures are falling short of expectations. Apple CEO Tim Cook described the Vision Pro as an "early adopter product," i.e. a technology for people who want to experience today what could be standard in the future. But there is currently speculation that Apple has stopped production at the end of 2024 because current supply more than covers demand. At the same time, rumors suggest that a new version is already being worked on. What developments are now imminent? Will there be a Vision Pro 2, a small hardware update, or a cheaper variant?

Before the release, Apple didn't know exactly how the Vision Pro would be received by customers. The technology is innovative but also expensive - and that makes it difficult to open up a large market. In October 2024, "The Information" reported that Apple could stop production of the current Vision Pro by the end of 2024. The reason: demand is manageable and there are enough devices to fulfill the remaining orders. At the same time, it was rumored that Apple was already working on a new model - but what strategy the company is pursuing is still unclear.

Vision Pro 2: The second generation is delayed

Initially, there were indications that Apple was working on a direct successor - an Apple Vision Pro 2 with expanded features and improved technology. But now it seems as if Apple has put these plans on hold in order to work on a cheaper version first.

A small update as an interim solution?

Although a Vision Pro 2 is unlikely anytime soon, Apple could launch a small hardware update later this year. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple is working on a revised version of the current Vision Pro with the following adjustments:

Use of the new M5 chip, which replaces the previous M2 processor.
Support for Apple Intelligence features, which could include an evolved version of Siri.
No new design or major functional changes – many components are carried over from the first version.

Apple may be using this update to utilize leftover inventory to remain economically efficient. It is unclear whether the M5 chip alone will significantly improve the user experience.

Will the next Vision Pro have 5G?

Another rumor concerns the possible introduction of an Apple modem for 5G connectivity in the Vision Pro. This would allow the headset to connect directly to the cellular network without relying on an iPhone or Wi-Fi. However, there are indications that Apple is reserving this technology for a later model rather than a minor update.

Is a cheaper Vision headset coming?

In addition to a revised version of the current Vision Pro, there are reports that Apple is working on a cheaper version of the headset in the long term. This variant should be more comparable in price to a high-end iPhone. But according to Ming-Chi Kuo, such a model will not appear until 2027 at the earliest - and possibly later. Apple still has to find ways to reduce production costs without drastically deteriorating quality. The following savings are conceivable:

No EyeSight display, which makes the user's eyes visible to the outside world.
Use of cheaper materials, such as plastic instead of aluminum and glass.
Lower display resolution, with a move to OLED panels of up to 2.1 inches and 1,700 ppi, instead of the current 1.42 inches at 3,400 ppi.

What about Apple's plans for AR glasses?

Apple had been working for years on lightweight augmented reality glasses that would connect directly to a Mac. But this project was reportedly discontinued in January 2025. The reason: the technology is not yet mature enough to build full-fledged AR glasses that work without an external power source. Nevertheless, Apple is sticking to the long-term vision of compact AR glasses without cables - although it will probably be years before this becomes a reality.

What does the future of the Apple Vision Pro look like?

After a year on the market, it is clear: the Apple Vision Pro is a niche product with high costs and limited distribution. While Apple continues to work on the technology, some things are already foreseeable:

A small update with the M5 chip could be released at the end of 2025 but will not bring any major innovations.
A cheaper Vision headset is planned but will probably not be ready for market until 2027 or later.
Apple is still pursuing the idea of AR glasses, but the necessary technology is not yet mature.

Whether the Vision Pro will become more widely available in the coming years or remain a purely niche product remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Apple is continuing to develop the concept – albeit more slowly than many expected. Looking for helpful tips for your Apple Vision Pro? Here you'll find everything you need to know about your new Apple device – enjoy exploring! Are you looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront – there you'll find a variety of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit and more! (Image: Apple)