Apple Focuses on Cheaper Vision Headset, But It’ll Still Cost Ya: Report

We now have some more details on Apple’s ‘cheaper’ Vision Pro headset, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his weekly PowerOn newsletter.

Apple is shifting its efforts toward developing a more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset, internally codenamed N107, aiming for a price range of $1,500 to $2,000 USD ($2,048 CAD to $2,731 CAD), which is still a pricey proposition compared to rival headsets from Meta that are a fraction of the cost.

Sources close to the matter tell Gurman that Apple’s Vision Products Group is now prioritizing this device, which they hope to launch by the end of 2025. This timeline has been in place since before the high-end Vision Pro was unveiled last year.

The major challenge for Apple lies in lowering the cost of this more affordable headset while maintaining key features. According to insiders, prototypes of the N107 have a narrower field of view compared to the Vision Pro. To further cut costs, Apple is considering a design that would require the device to be tethered to a Mac or iPhone, reducing the need for high processing power and expensive components needed for a standalone product.

Despite these cost-saving measures, Apple is committed to retaining critical functionality in the N107. The company aims to balance affordability with performance, ensuring the device appeals to a broader market segment without sacrificing user experience.

Simultaneously, Apple continues to develop the second-gen Vision Pro, referred to internally as the N109. This model will include a faster processor and improved external cameras. Also, Apple is looking into making the successor lighter and more comfortable. This advanced version, originally planned for a 2025 release, has been delayed to the end of 2026 at the earliest. One has to wonder who will still be willing to plunk down the expected $3,499 USD starting price for the second-gen Vision Pro, if pricing remains the same.

Apple is also renewing its efforts to create AR-only glasses, aiming for lightweight pair that can be worn throughout the day. While industry speculation suggests a possible launch around 2027, sources within Apple are skeptical that the technology will be ready by then.

As for new M4 Macs? The schedule remains the same according to Gurman’s most recent checks. The M4-based Mac Pro and Mac Studio are expected in the latter half of 2025. New M4 iMacs, MacBook Pros, and Mac minis are anticipated between the end of 2024 and early 2025, with new MacBook Airs slated for spring 2025. Apple debuted its M4 chip this year in its newest iPad Pros, but sadly iPadOS is still lacking full desktop-class features to take advantage of the newest versions of Apple Silicon.

Apple Vision Pro pre-orders launch in Canada this Friday. Click here to check out Vision Pro pricing in Canada.