Apple may be pivoting on its hardware strategy with the Vision Pro, as the tech giant is reportedly pausing work on a successor to the spatial computer to make a cheaper model.
A new article from The Information reports that Apple is working on a cheaper model of the Vision, codenamed N109, with a target release date of late 2025. The report notes that Apple is looking to maintain the high-res displays in the cheaper model but will remove some undisclosed high-end features — possibly features like EyeSight, found on the Vision Pro. This should not only bring down the cost but also make the device lighter in weight.
Regarding pricing, The Information is reporting that a cheaper Vision model will be closer to the price of the Pro variant iPhone. This corroborates a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman penned last October, in which he said there were internal discussions at Apple about pricing a cheaper headset somewhere between $1,500 and $2,500.
Apple released the Vision Pro exclusively in the United States in February, though it appears sales of the device have not been particularly impressive. Aside from being limited to the United States market, the device has been criticized for its hefty $3,500 price tag, battery life, and weight, causing comfortability and neck fatigue after prolonged use.
In late April, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kou reported that the iPhone maker had slashed shipments of the Vision Pro due to low demand. With Apple announcing at WWDC 2024 last week that the Vision Pro is finally releasing in international markets, beginning on June 28, hopefully the headset will improve its sales performance in other regions.
In our review of the Apple Vision Pro, my colleague Seth Macy wrote: “Despite its absurd price tag, uncomfortable fit, and bummer battery life, the Apple Vision Pro is an absolutely incredible device that completely obliterated my skepticism and made me renew my vows to the cult of Apple.”
Taylor is a Reporter at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
