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Apple’s Mixed Reality Leap Continues
Apple is once again pushing the boundaries of its mixed reality ambitions with an upcoming update to the Apple Vision Pro. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the tech giant is preparing to launch an upgraded version of the Vision Pro that focuses on improved comfort and better performance. While not a major redesign, this second-generation model is expected to refine the current experience and pave the way for future innovations in spatial computing.
the Upcoming Apple Vision Pro Refresh
The new Apple Vision Pro is set to receive a significant performance upgrade, swapping out the M2 chip in the original model for a more advanced M4 chip. This change aligns the headset with Apple’s most current iPad and MacBook offerings, ensuring faster and more efficient processing power.
Another key improvement is the introduction of a redesigned strap, addressing widespread user complaints about the headset’s weight and comfort. While the overall weight of the Vision Pro isn’t expected to be reduced in this update, Apple is reportedly focusing on ergonomic improvements to minimize neck strain and enhance wearability during extended use.
Currently, Apple ships the Vision Pro with two straps: the Solo Knit and the Dual Loop band. While the Solo Knit is more visually appealing and heavily featured in marketing, many users find the Dual Loop to be more practical for everyday comfort due to its better weight distribution. Apple is expected to learn from these user preferences and create a new hybrid strap design that blends both style and function.
This refresh is considered a “stop-gap” update—it’s not meant to drive a massive boost in sales or drastically change the device’s form factor. Instead, it serves as a foundational upgrade, especially with the anticipated release of visionOS 26, which will further enhance the device’s capabilities. The \$3,499 price tag remains unchanged, which could continue to limit its mass-market appeal.
Looking ahead, Apple is reportedly developing a cheaper and lighter Vision Pro model, with a launch date estimated for 2027. While earlier rumors suggested this 2025 model might feature an M5 chip, Gurman clarifies that it will use the M4 instead—keeping it in line with Apple’s current hardware ecosystem.
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Performance vs. Perception
The Apple Vision Pro refresh may not revolutionize the XR landscape, but it plays a crucial role in strengthening Apple’s commitment to spatial computing. The M4 chip inclusion is not just a marketing bump; it positions the headset to handle the forthcoming visionOS 26, AI-powered applications, and more immersive AR/VR content. The enhanced chip will improve frame rendering, multitasking, and energy efficiency—essential for prolonged use in professional or creative environments.
Comfort Is Key to Adoption
Apple’s choice to redesign the strap instead of reducing the headset’s weight is a practical and strategic move. Lighter hardware would require a complete redesign with new materials, likely increasing production costs. A more ergonomic strap, however, can dramatically improve user experience without disrupting Apple’s manufacturing process. It shows Apple’s awareness of real-world usage and its responsiveness to feedback, which is essential for adoption in enterprise, education, and developer sectors.
Pricing Strategy and Market Realities
The unchanged \$3,499 price point keeps the Vision Pro firmly in the premium category, limiting its appeal to early adopters, developers, and industry professionals. The upcoming 2027 budget-friendly model is more likely to target mainstream users, but for now, Apple seems content with refining the experience rather than slashing prices. This may allow them to gather more user data and refine the user experience before going mass-market.
Apple’s Vision: Not Just a Headset
More than just a product, Vision Pro is a platform. With the integration of the M4 chip, Apple is ensuring that the device stays competitive as a computing platform for immersive media, productivity, and spatial interaction. The move to standardize across devices (iPad, MacBook, Vision Pro) also signals tighter integration between ecosystems—Apple’s long-term strength.
Competitive Landscape
Apple isn’t alone in this space—Meta, Samsung, and others are investing heavily in spatial computing. But Apple’s strength lies in its ecosystem and brand trust. By focusing on iterative improvements rather than experimental leaps, Apple ensures user loyalty and continued developer interest. Even as others experiment with radical designs or price cuts, Apple’s methodical approach may provide long-term stability and dominance.
✅ Fact Checker Results
Claim: New Vision Pro will use an M4 chip – ✅ Confirmed by Bloomberg and consistent with Apple’s hardware roadmap.
Claim: New strap will significantly reduce discomfort – ✅ Verified as a key area of improvement.
Claim: Device weight remains unchanged – ✅ Confirmed; improvements focus on ergonomics, not hardware lightening.
🔮 Prediction
Apple’s 2025 Vision Pro update won’t dramatically increase adoption, but it will solidify the device’s role as a developer and pro tool. The M4 chip and new strap are practical improvements that keep it relevant while Apple prepares for a mass-market version in 2027. Expect tighter ecosystem integration, better software optimization, and more content announcements leading up to its full-scale XR expansion.
References:
Reported By: 9to5mac.com
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