Apple Plans a More Affordable Mixed Reality Headset

Tech
By James Carter,  published 6 September 2025 at 8h03, updated on 6 September 2025 at 8h03.
Tech

Apple is developing a more affordable mixed reality headset, signaling its intention to broaden access to advanced immersive technologies. This move could make cutting-edge augmented and virtual reality experiences available to a wider range of consumers.

TL;DR

  • Apple to launch lighter, cheaper mixed reality headset in 2027.
  • Vision Air may cost under $1,800, rivaling competition.
  • Next-gen Vision Pro and M5 MacBook also anticipated soon.

    • Apple Eyes Wider Audience With Affordable Mixed Reality Headset

    As the *mixed reality* landscape heats up, Apple is already plotting its next move. After a lukewarm reception to the high-priced *Vision Pro*, which debuted at $3,499 and struggled to win over mainstream consumers, the California tech giant appears ready to broaden its reach with a more accessible device: the *Vision Air*. According to respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this new model is tentatively slated for release in 2027.

    A Lighter Approach and Competitive Pricing

    One of the most significant upgrades with the *Vision Air* could be its remarkable weight reduction. Drawing on information from Kuo, the upcoming headset is expected to be up to 40% lighter than its predecessor—tipping the scales at just 360–410 grams, a sharp drop from the Vision Pro’s hefty 590–635 grams. For comparison, competitors like the Meta Quest 3 weigh in at around 500 grams. This concerted focus on comfort responds directly to criticism aimed at Apple’s first-generation headset and may make daily use far more appealing.

    Just as notable is Apple’s apparent shift in pricing strategy. The company aims to lower the entry barrier by slashing costs by over half compared to the original Vision Pro. With a projected price tag near $1,800, the Vision Air would position itself within reach of a much broader audience—though it remains pricier than other flagship Apple products such as the iPhone 17 Pro or certain MacBook Pro models. Still, this price point would align Apple’s offering with direct competitors like Samsung’s upcoming Project Moohan.

    A key technical evolution may also be in store: industry whispers suggest that *pancake lenses*—already found in rival devices from Meta—could be integrated into the Vision Air for improved optical performance.

    Busy Release Calendar Ahead

    Those watching Apple’s roadmap will note that attention isn’t limited to consumer-grade headsets. Internal code leaks hint at an updated Vision Pro powered by Apple’s anticipated *M5 chip*, set for debut as early as October alongside new MacBook Pros. This refreshed top-tier headset might hit shelves in late 2025, promising technical enhancements while maintaining a familiar design silhouette.

    For devoted fans, autumn could bring even more excitement:

  • – Launches expected for both iPhone 17 and MacBook Pro M5.
    – Continued expansion of Apple’s mixed reality ecosystem.
    – Heightened anticipation around competitive pricing and comfort improvements.

    • An Eagerly Awaited Shift in Strategy

    As industry watchers speculate about Cupertino’s next steps, all eyes remain fixed on how these strategic pivots might reshape Apple’s place within the ever-evolving world of *virtual* and *augmented reality*. The coming months promise not just new hardware—but potentially a redefinition of what mainstream adoption looks like for this cutting-edge technology.