Apple is releasing a more affordable mixed-reality headset in 2025 for $2000. This is a response to the lukewarm reception of the $3499 Vision Pro which was released earlier this year. The new model will make spatial computing more accessible and potentially double sales of the Vision Pro, but will have trade offs in features and materials.
Why a Cheaper Model?
The Vision Pro was launched as a high-end mixed-reality device with premium hardware: aluminum and glass construction, dual 4K displays and the unique EyeSight feature that projects your eyes on the front of the headset. But $3499 was too expensive for most people and it ended up being a niche product for developers and tech enthusiasts only.
Apple is pivoting to a $2000 headset to make it more accessible by cutting costs without sacrificing too much usability. They expect to sell twice as many of this cheaper version than the Vision Pro, but even that might not be that many given the lack of compelling use cases beyond virtual meetings and immersive media experiences.
What’s changed in the $2000 version
1. Materials and Build
Unlike the premium build of the Vision Pro, the cheaper version will have plastic instead of aluminum and no glass. This reduces production costs and one of the biggest complaints about the Vision Pro: its weight. Many users found the original device uncomfortable to wear for long periods because of the heavy front section and switching to lighter materials will make it more comfortable.
2. Simplified Features
Apple is rumored to drop the EyeSight feature, the front-facing display that lets people see your eyes through the headset. While innovative, EyeSight added complexity and cost and some people thought it was unnecessary. By removing this feature Apple can simplify the design and focus on the core features like AR and VR applications.
3. Processor and Performance
The Vision Pro uses the M2 chip but the cheaper version will have a less powerful processor, probably the A18 Pro chip. Not as advanced as the M2 but the A18 Pro can still handle AR/VR tasks, since the focus will be on media consumption and basic productivity rather than high-end applications.
4. Target Market and Sales
While Apple expects the cheaper headset to sell more than the Vision Pro, its audience will still be pretty niche. At $2000 it’s a big investment even for tech savvy users. The product will likely appeal to early adopters who value virtual multi monitor setups or immersive entertainment without needing the full capabilities of the Vision Pro.
Competition and Market
Apple has competition from established players like Meta who have more affordable VR headsets like the Quest series. Meta’s headsets are way cheaper so it will be tough for Apple to convince buyers that the higher price is worth it. But Apple’s reputation for design, ecosystem integration and premium branding may still sway customers looking for a more polished alternative.
Conclusion
The $2000 headset is Apple’s attempt to make innovation more affordable. It won’t have all the bells and whistles of the Vision Pro but this one might address some of the practical concerns around comfort and usability. With features focused on essential AR/VR experiences and a lighter more ergonomic build Apple hopes to make spatial computing more accessible to a wider audience.
But will it succeed? That depends on whether Apple can show clear and compelling use cases for the device beyond early adopters. As the mixed reality space evolves this new headset could be the key to making immersive technology more mainstream.