Apple, the tech giant known for its innovative products, is reportedly working on a cheaper version of its Vision Pro headset. According to various sources, including Bloomberg and The Information, Apple has shifted resources from developing a new high-end Vision Pro model to creating a more affordable alternative.
The cheaper Vision headset, codenamed N109, is said to be at least one-third lighter than the first model and keep the high-res displays. However, it may require a tethered iPhone or Mac for some processing power and components savings. This would be a significant departure from the original Vision Pro, which operates independently of external devices.
Apple's decision to focus on a cheaper Vision headset comes amid slowing sales and high price points of the first-generation model. The company is reportedly aiming for a price point between $1,500 and $2,500 for the N109.
Despite these efforts, Apple has had trouble cutting costs without compromising critical features. As a result, the launch of the cheaper Vision headset may be delayed beyond its initial goal of shipping by the end of 2025.
Apple is not abandoning its high-end Vision Pro product line entirely. The company is still working on a second-generation model, codenamed N109, which includes a faster processor and improvements to external cameras. However, this next version will take longer to arrive than initially planned.
The cheaper Vision headset represents an opportunity for Apple to expand its reach in the virtual reality market by offering a more accessible product. It remains to be seen whether this new approach will help Apple regain momentum in the competitive tech landscape.