Apple’s venture into the extended reality (XR) wearable market, while not as overwhelmingly successful as the iPhone or Apple Watch, is set to continue its forward momentum with plans for a second-generation Vision Pro headset. According to a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his PowerOn newsletter, Apple is eyeing a launch timeframe of between Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 for the next iteration of the Vision Pro, suggesting that this announcement will coincide with the annual launch of updated iPhones and the sporadic introduction of new Mac hardware.
In terms of design changes, Gurman highlights that Apple is exploring various concepts for the redesigned headset. Notably, one potential design candidate could retain the aesthetic of the original Vision Pro. This would not be unprecedented for Apple, as the company often chooses to refine internal hardware while keeping external designs consistent across its product lines, including the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch.
This strategy appears to be sensible, particularly given the complexity of the Vision Pro’s engineering, which is among the most sophisticated Apple has produced in years. Maintaining the core architecture while enhancing internal power and software experience aligns with Apple’s R&D investment philosophy.
Rumors suggest that the second-generation headset will see significant upgrades, most notably a transition from M2 to the expected M5 silicon. Apple has been engaged in a comprehensive overhaul of its Mac lineup, integrating M4 series processors, a process that is anticipated to continue through 2025. Renowned industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that mass production for the next Vision Pro may kick off in the latter half of 2025, potentially incorporating new features like support for enhanced Apple Intelligence.
In another noteworthy development, Apple is reportedly conducting internal research on smart glasses, seeking to explore diverse avenues within the category. This move appears strategic, especially since competitors like Meta and Snap are advancing their own smart glasses technologies, and Apple aims to remain competitive in the burgeoning AR market. Gurman suggests that these smart glasses could resemble a wearable version of the AirPods, but the company has yet to officially comment on its pursuits in XR technology.
Meanwhile, the anticipation surrounding Apple’s upcoming Mac announcements has grown significantly. After a month of speculation, Apple confirmed that it would unveil new Mac-related products next week, although the specifics regarding the announcements remain under wraps. Rumors indicate a strong focus on refreshing the Mac lineup with the latest M4 chip, introducing upgrades to the MacBook Pro, iMac, and a completely revamped Mac mini. This sequence could represent the largest wave of Mac releases since the debut of the M1 chipset in 2020.
Despite the Vision Pro making a strong entry earlier this year, recent reports indicate a decline in consumer interest. The Information has claimed that production of the device is set to be suspended in the coming month due to lackluster demand, with some suppliers reportedly halting component manufacturing as early as summer this year. Apple’s trajectory in the XR space will be closely watched as it navigates these challenges while also expanding its offerings in the tech landscape.