Apple’s Vision Pro headset, while not achieving the same level of success as the iPhone or Apple Watch, remains a key focus for the company’s future. Despite shelving plans for a more budget-friendly headset, a successor to the Vision Pro, potentially named Vision Pro 2, is reportedly on the horizon, possibly arriving sooner than anticipated.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests in his PowerOn newsletter that the second-generation Vision Pro could launch between fall 2025 and spring 2026, aligning with typical iPhone and Mac release windows. Apple is exploring various design options, but one potential candidate closely resembles the original Vision Pro. This wouldn’t be unusual for Apple, as they frequently update internal hardware while retaining the external design across their product lines.
This strategy seems reasonable given the Vision Pro’s sophisticated engineering. From an R&D perspective, maintaining the core architecture and focusing upgrades on processing power and software refinement is a logical approach.
A person wearing the Apple Vision Pro demo unit in an Apple Store.
Bloomberg previously reported that the second-generation Vision Pro would likely feature the M5 chip. Apple is currently transitioning its Mac lineup to the M4 series, a process expected to continue into 2025. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicates the next Vision Pro might begin production in the latter half of 2025, incorporating an M5-class processor instead of the current M2, alongside support for Apple Intelligence.
Potential Vision Pro 2 Upgrades: Processing Power and AI
A significant upgrade expected in the Vision Pro 2 is the inclusion of the M5 chip, offering substantial performance improvements over the current M2. This enhanced processing power will enable more complex AR/VR experiences and smoother performance. Coupled with potential Apple Intelligence integration, the headset could offer more intuitive and personalized interactions.
Apple’s Exploration of Smart Glasses
Beyond the Vision Pro 2, Apple is also researching smart glasses. Companies like Meta and Snap have already showcased their smart glasses technology, focusing on interactive AR applications. Apple appears keen on entering this market, potentially offering a glasses-based version of AirPods, according to Gurman. This suggests Apple’s XR ambitions extend beyond immersive headsets to more accessible and everyday wearable technology.
Looking Ahead: A Competitive XR Landscape
While these predictions remain unconfirmed by Apple, they paint a picture of a company committed to advancing its XR technology. With a potential Vision Pro 2 on the horizon and research into smart glasses underway, Apple seems poised to remain a significant player in the evolving XR landscape. However, it’s crucial to approach these predictions with caution until official announcements are made.
