Apple needs a cheaper VR headset

Priced at $3,500, the Vision Pro mixed reality headset is seven times more expensive than its nearest rival, the Meta Quest. However, Apple has plans for a cheaper iteration


HOW APPLE COULD REDUCE HEADSET COSTS

Dual Apple silicon processors: Substituted for older Mac or iPhone chips

Camera and sensor array: Number of cameras could be reduced, although this may lessen performance

Twin 4K micro-OLED virtual reality displays: Replaced by lower quality screens
 
Motorised IPD* setting: Replaced by simpler manual operation
    
Headband: Cushioned, breathable 3D knitted design could be simplified

Audio straps: Removed altogether, requiring user to wear AirPods earphones


FEATURES NOT TO BE COMPROMISED

Eye and hand- tracking: Control system is core to design

EyeSight: Costly external screen depicting user’s eyes will remain
  

Apple to release cheaper Vision model by end of 2025, along with updated Vision Pro
with faster processor


*Interpupillary Distance (IPD) – distance between centre of eyes


Sources: Bloomberg, MacRumors, Apple 
Pictures: Apple 
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