Apple's Next Vision Headset Might Cost $2,000
- Apple's cutting the Vision Pro price tag, but $2,000 isn't pocket change—is it enough?
- Less cash, more compromises: what's Apple leaving out in its cheaper headset?
- Is the 'affordable' Vision headset still a stretch for the average Joe? Let's dive in.
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset as early as next year, aiming to cut the original $3,499 price tag nearly in half. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the lower-end model would cost about $2,000 but might still be out of reach for the average consumer.
Photo via HardwareZone // The original Apple Vision Pro showcased at WWDC 2023.
To achieve the reduced price, Apple is expected to make several compromises. The cheaper headset would likely use an inferior processor and cheaper materials, potentially replacing the premium glass and aluminum chassis with plastic. It would also lack the EyeSight feature, which displays the user's eyes on the outside of the headset—a technology that Gurman describes as "a gee-whiz feature."
"I expect a lower-end Vision headset to arrive as early as next year," Gurman writes in his Power On newsletter. "The lower-end model would cost about $2,000 and probably use an inferior processor and cheaper materials. It also would lack EyeSight."
The original Vision Pro, marketed as Apple's first "spatial computer," launched in early 2024 after being showcased at WWDC 2023. Despite its impressive AR capabilities and expanded availability to regions like Asia, Europe, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK, the headset hasn't gained significant traction among consumers. Many found it too heavy and isolating, offering an expensive glimpse into the future without enough practical appeal.
Photo via Apple Inc. // The EyeSight feature might be missing in action on the cheaper model.
The high cost and limited use cases have made it a tough sell for the average consumer.
Apple hopes that the lower-priced model will double its AR headset sales. However, even at $2,000, the device may still be too expensive for widespread adoption. The company seems aware of this challenge but remains committed to its long-term vision in the AR/VR space.
Looking ahead, Gurman reports that Apple is working on a second-generation Vision Pro with a more powerful processor, expected to debut in 2026. By 2027, the company is "considering launching smart glasses on par with the Meta Ray-Bans, as well as AirPods with cameras." These products could leverage the billions invested in the Vision Pro's visual intelligence technology.
Photo via Bizz Buzz // Will you jump on the $2,000 Vision headset when it drops? Let us know below!
While these developments are exciting, they also raise questions about consumer readiness. Is the market prepared to embrace high-priced AR devices, even if they're more affordable than the initial offering? Only time will tell if Apple's strategy will pay off.
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