There have been numerous distinct speculations regarding Apple’s forthcoming spatial computer. Is Apple focusing on a budget-friendly model, or is it going all in with a second generation Pro version? Today, we will encapsulate all the rumors surrounding the Vision headset.
## Next-gen Vision Pro
In the approaching months, Apple is set to unveil an upgrade for the Apple Vision Pro. Speculations have varied regarding whether it will feature an M4 chip or an M5 chip, although current indications suggest a preference for the forthcoming M5 chip. This will provide a significant performance enhancement over the existing M2 chip.
Reports suggest that Apple is also ‘prototyping’ new head straps aimed at making the headset feel lighter on the wearer’s head, despite the overall headset design remaining largely the same.
Aside from that, it will be a slight refresh. Apple might introduce a variant with an enhanced neural engine compared to a standard M4 or M5 chip.
## Vision Pro: Mac edition
Looking further ahead, Apple is contemplating a more Mac-dependent iteration of the Vision Pro. This headset would cater to users who utilize the Vision Pro for specialized applications, such as surgical overlays and flight simulators. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman:
> Instead, it’s now developing a Vision Pro that connects to a Mac. The distinction between the two concepts is the degree of immersion. The previously shelved device featured transparent lenses; the ongoing project will employ a similar method as the Vision Pro.
The intention is to establish an ultra-low-latency system for streaming a user’s Mac display or linking to high-end enterprise software.
Apple was earlier engaged in creating a variant of augmented reality glasses that would sync with a Mac, and it appears that Apple is attempting to revive that now-shelved concept in the form of a headset.
## Long-rumored Vision Air
Since the launch of the product, rumors about a more affordable Vision Pro have surfaced, possibly even before its initial release. We’ve been hearing about a so-called Vision Air model that promises to reduce both weight and cost for quite some time.
In recent months, there has been an increased amount of information, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman confirms that Apple is, in fact, working on a lighter and less expensive Vision Pro. However, he does mention that tariffs might complicate efforts to achieve price reductions.
Gurman provides limited details on how Apple plans to make it lighter and more affordable, but he does mention that Apple aims to address neck strain issues. Design efforts are expected to be completed ‘next year’, with a release anticipated within the following year. Thus, by 2027, we should finally see a lighter Vision Pro.
## Glasses
Although AR glasses aren’t expected to arrive immediately, Apple CEO Tim Cook is reportedly “hell bent” on outpacing Meta in launching a pair of industry-leading AR glasses.
In the meantime, we are aware that Apple is developing a set of smart glasses. Envision Meta Ray-Bans, but with Apple’s touch. These glasses will be lightweight equipped with cameras, speakers, mics, but without displays – making them ideal for engaging with AI. According to Gurman, such a product is set to debut in 2026.
Hopefully, Siri and Apple Intelligence will be ready by then.
