Apple is working on a more affordable version of its futuristic Vision headset, according to tech analyst Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. This budget-friendly headset aims to reach a price range of $1,500 to $2,500.
To save costs, Apple plans to remove the EyeSight feature, which projects the wearer’s facial expressions to others. The EyeSight feature primarily benefits observers in the room, making it a good candidate for cost reduction.
By eliminating EyeSight and reducing the number of cameras and sensors, Apple can lower the headset’s price while still delivering a compelling experience.
New Features of Vision Headset
The EyeSight feature uses an external OLED display to project the wearer’s facial expressions to onlookers. This feature is achieved by rendering the user’s face and eyes on an externally curved OLED panel framed in lenticular glass, creating a 3D illusion.
The Vision Pro headset continuously tracks the wearer’s position and renders the corresponding perspective of their eyes. Removing EyeSight may not affect the wearer’s experience, especially if they use the headset alone.
Two Models in Development
Apple is not only working on the more affordable Vision headset but is also developing a high-end Vision Pro model. The focus for the Vision Pro is on making it lighter, more comfortable, and upgrading the internal chip specifications.
Apple is expected to release the first Vision Pro early next year, which could mean anytime before the end of April, as per Mark Gurman’s interpretation.
Upcoming Products from Apple
Apart from the Vision headset, Apple is making progress on new M3-based MacBook Pros, MacBook Airs, and iPads. However, their release is not expected to happen this month.
New entry-level iPad, iPad Air, and iPad mini models are in development with faster chips, but significant updates are not imminent.
As previously reported, new iPad Pro models with revamped designs, OLED displays, faster chips, and redesigned Magic Keyboards are slated for release next year.
M3 MacBook Pros and Airs
The high-end MacBook Pros with M3 Pro and M3 Max chips are approaching mass production, and their consumer release is anticipated between early and spring 2024.
For those awaiting a new MacBook Air, it may take a bit longer, as the 13-inch and 15-inch M3 models have just reached the engineering verification test stage (EVT), with a potential release between spring and summer of the following year.