Apple has always been known for its innovative products, and the Vision Pro headset is no exception. The first generation, which debuted earlier in 2023, introduced users to Apple’s vision of mixed reality. While the device was impressive, it came with a hefty price tag of $3,499, leaving many wondering whether the cost justified the technology.
Now, according to well-regarded industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is already working on a second version of the Vision Pro headset, which promises significant improvements under the hood, without drastic changes in design.
This new version, expected to be released in 2025, will reportedly feature Apple’s upcoming M5 chip, a major leap from the current M2 chip. This improvement could potentially change the game for mixed reality, providing not only better performance but also a more immersive and intelligent experience through the integration of Apple Intelligence.
Apple Vision Pro 2 is rumored to enter mass production by mid-2025, combining Apple Intelligence with spatial computing, all driven by the lightning-fast M5 chip!
Source: @mingchikuo pic.twitter.com/eYPuVm0G3k
— Justin Ryan ᯅ (@justinryanio) September 27, 2024
Kuo’s insights into the upcoming device suggest that it could mark a turning point in Apple’s journey toward dominating the mixed reality market. While many details about the Vision Pro 2 are still speculative, the proposed upgrades could make the device a much more compelling proposition for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Importance of the M5 Chip
One of the most anticipated features of the Vision Pro 2 is the M5 chip, which is expected to deliver a significant boost in processing power. The current Vision Pro is powered by Apple’s M2 chip, which is already well-regarded for its efficiency and performance. However, the jump to the M5 chip is expected to be a major advancement, providing the device with the necessary power to handle complex tasks related to spatial computing and artificial intelligence.
The M5 chip will not only improve the general performance of the headset but will also enhance the device’s ability to process high-end AI functionalities. Apple has long been focused on incorporating more AI-driven features across its products, and the Vision Pro 2 seems poised to take advantage of these innovations.
From improved user interfaces to more responsive applications, the M5 chip is expected to make the Vision Pro 2 a far more capable device compared to its predecessor. The increased computing power could also make the headset a better tool for developers and creatives looking to work in mixed reality environments.
Apple Intelligence Integration
A significant upgrade in the Vision Pro 2 will be the deeper integration of Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI and machine learning platform. This integration is not just a minor software update but a major shift that could reshape how users interact with the device.
According to Kuo, Apple Intelligence could play a crucial role in making the Vision Pro 2 more intuitive and user-friendly. The system would be able to understand user commands better, anticipate needs, and deliver personalised experiences.
This AI integration might also lead to advanced features such as text-to-video capabilities, which could enhance the creative potential of the Vision Pro 2. Imagine being able to generate videos based solely on text input — this feature, inspired by similar AI models like OpenAI’s Sora, could open up new possibilities for both content creators and casual users.
The AI capabilities could also improve everyday tasks, from writing assistance to more immersive notifications and smarter summaries, all powered by Apple’s AI platform.
Although these features sound exciting, they are not expected to roll out in the immediate future. Apple might hold back some of these advancements for visionOS 3, which could launch around the same time as the new headset. This strategy would allow Apple to deliver a polished, comprehensive experience, capitalising on both the hardware and software upgrades.
Design Consistency with a Focus on Affordability
APPLE’S NEW M5-POWERED VISION PRO EXPECTED BY 2H25, ANALYST MING-CHI KUO SAYS
According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple $AAPL is set to release a new Vision Pro headset with an M5 chip, aiming for mass production in the second half of 2025. The upgrade…
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) September 27, 2024
Despite the significant internal improvements expected with the Vision Pro 2, Kuo has indicated that the overall design of the headset will remain largely unchanged. This decision is not surprising, given that the first-generation Vision Pro already features a sleek, modern design that aligns with Apple’s aesthetic standards. Keeping the design consistent also allows Apple to manage production costs more efficiently, potentially keeping the price point similar to the original $3,499 model.
This consistency in design could also mean that Apple is confident in the physical aspects of the Vision Pro, focusing its efforts on improving internal components rather than rethinking the external look. By minimising changes to the exterior, Apple can likely streamline production processes, making it easier to bring the headset to market without significantly increasing costs.
However, Kuo has suggested that production costs might drop slightly due to the stability in design and component choices, although it remains to be seen whether consumers will benefit from these savings in the form of a price reduction.
Vision Pro 2: A Step Towards the Mainstream?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the Vision Pro 2 is whether it can push Apple’s mixed reality technology into the mainstream. While the first-generation Vision Pro was hailed for its technological prowess, its high price and relatively limited app ecosystem prevented it from gaining widespread popularity. The Vision Pro 2, with its upgraded M5 chip and AI features, could be Apple’s opportunity to make mixed reality more accessible to a broader audience.
The integration of AI, improved performance, and a consistent design could make the Vision Pro 2 more appealing to developers, businesses, and even consumers looking for cutting-edge technology. However, Apple may need to focus on expanding the app ecosystem and offering more use cases for the device if it wants the Vision Pro 2 to become a household name.
There are also rumours that Apple is working on a more affordable mixed reality headset aimed at consumers who may not want to invest in the high-end Vision Pro line. If true, this move could help Apple capture a larger share of the market, providing both high-end and entry-level options for users.
The Vision Pro 2 is shaping up to be an exciting step forward for Apple in the world of mixed reality. With the M5 chip powering the device and Apple Intelligence enhancing user experiences, this headset could offer significant improvements over the original model. While the design may stay the same, the internal upgrades could make the Vision Pro 2 a more powerful and intuitive device.
Mass production of an Apple Vision Pro refresh with an M5 chip should start in late 2025, prominent supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims:https://t.co/NwjYnFvStV
— UploadVR (@UploadVR) September 27, 2024
