Apple's budget-friendly Vision Pro headset might arrive earlier than anticipated.

      Apple's Vision Pro headset, despite being the most sophisticated XR device available, did not achieve the level of success the company may have hoped for. Its hefty price tag of $3,500 certainly deterred many enthusiasts, but the absence of a comprehensive computing ecosystem supporting it was also a disappointment.

      Nonetheless, Apple is not giving up. In fact, the company is developing a more affordable, simplified version, which may be released sooner than anticipated. Bloomberg suggests that there is a possibility the headset could debut later this year, around the same time as the iPhone 17 series.

      Recent analyst predictions indicated that a new XR headset featuring toned-down hardware might take a few years to reach the market. However, it seems that fierce competition has prompted Apple to expedite its progress.

      When can we expect the next XR headset from Apple?

      Christine Romero-Chan / Digital Trends

      “All signs indicate that the lighter model could arrive between the end of this year and the first half of 2026,” according to the Bloomberg report. Previous rumors have hinted at a supposedly in-development “Vision One” model.

      The report also raises an intriguing question.

      Will Apple discontinue the Vision Pro, or will it remain available alongside the more affordable version? “The main uncertainty is whether the lighter model will act as a substitute for the Vision Pro or merely as a more economical option,” it notes.

      This question is complex, as the company is reportedly also working on a flagship successor. This new model is expected to have a unique feature: it will operate in a tethered mode, connected to a Mac to ensure optimal performance without latency or battery life issues.

      What details do we have about the low-cost Apple headset?

      Apple

      Regarding the lower-priced Vision-series headset, Bloomberg has previously reported that it might be powered by the forthcoming M5 silicon. Apple is anticipated to unveil Mac devices and a new iPad Pro utilizing the same processor later this year.

      The most significant change will likely involve size and bulk. The headset is expected to be lighter, potentially weighing less than a pound. In terms of pricing, it might range from $1,500 to $2,500, whereas the Vision Pro is priced at $3,500.

      To complement the reduced price of its budget XR headset, Apple is said to plan for a lower-resolution display. However, details on how Apple plans to decrease weight and if any major design changes are forthcoming remain undisclosed.

      If the Vision Pro experience is any indication, Apple needs to address more than just weight reduction. Wearing the current-generation Vision Pro is uncomfortable, so it will be interesting to see how Apple resolves the ergonomic issues in its upcoming budget headset.