**Apple Vision Pro: Anticipated Budget-Friendly Model and Current Progress**
Last month, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that a less expensive variant of the Apple Vision Pro headset is not projected to arrive until late 2027. This timeline has been supported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who stated that the device, codenamed N100, will be lighter and more affordable than its predecessor.
The design for the N100 is still under development, with project completion expected in 2026, leading to a public launch in 2027. In the meantime, Apple intends to unveil a new generation of the Apple Vision Pro that will feature a revamped strap and an enhanced M5 processor. This refreshed model is anticipated to launch by the end of this year, acting as a temporary solution to ensure Apple maintains its foothold in the competitive headset market.
Alongside hardware upgrades, Apple is also focused on improving the Vision Pro’s software, with visionOS 26 scheduled to debut later this year, bringing an array of new features.
The forthcoming N100 model, informally dubbed the ‘Apple Vision Air’, aims to tackle two significant concerns regarding the current Vision Pro: its weight and steep price. Apple is reportedly assessing which features to incorporate to reach a considerably lower price point. Kuo has indicated that the company might consider utilizing less expensive materials, like plastic for the casing, and decrease the number of sensors compared to the premium Vision Pro. Furthermore, the front-facing EyeSight display could be excluded to further lower costs.
As Apple continues to innovate and enhance its offerings in the augmented reality domain, all attention is focused on the expected N100 device, which aims to make the Vision Pro experience more attainable for a wider audience.