Insider on Vision Pro: No new hardware in the next two years
A report says that Apple has few resources for a new headset. However, the underlying technology, along with visionOS, will be incorporated into smart glasses.
Mediocre outlook for the Vision Pro.
(Image: Apple)
What's next for the Vision Pro? According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, Apple's expensive, high-resolution mixed-reality headset has not been completely shelved as some observers have speculated. However, work is progressing slowly after Apple disbanded teams or reassigned employees to other departments, Gurman wrote in his newsletter on Sunday.
Maintenance on a shoestring, no new hires
Apple has reportedly “deprioritized” work on a significantly improved new headset – at least for the foreseeable future. However, it is conceivable that another model will be released in the next two years. Work on substantial improvements, such as (significantly) lighter hardware and/or an integrated battery (“Vision Air”), has initially been abandoned by Apple.
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However, the software and technology side of the project is far from being abandoned. Apple sees visionOS as a foundation for future smart glasses with displays, which are said to remain a “high priority” for Apple. visionOS 27 will only receive minor updates. However, ongoing maintenance is ensured, not least to avoid disappointing customers who have invested 3700 euros or more.
Ternus wasn't a fan but wants smart glasses
Interestingly, Apple is still seeking people on its jobs website who work on visionOS and mixed reality – as well as on Vision Pro hardware. However, the latter is said to be a ruse, as Apple provides no information about future smart glasses with displays. This means that Vision Pro applicants could also be assigned to such projects. According to the report, Apple's next CEO, John Ternus, was not a big fan of the headset but also sees smart glasses as important. It is also conceivable that new technologies and materials that Apple is researching in parallel could lead to the Vision Pro becoming lighter and cheaper.
Many of Apple's top managers, according to Gurman, have already “written off” the Vision Pro in its current incarnation – due to its price and weight. “However, they believe in glasses and that the Vision Pro is a stepping stone to this vision.” Ultimately, this is good news for owners of the headset, but it is unlikely to attract new buyers. At least visionOS 27 is also expected to receive the new AI functions expected with iOS 27 and Co.
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