Apple's budget Vision Pro to be launched after 2027, current VR headset to get a midway update

Tech enthusiasts have been buzzing for months about a budget version of Apple’s Vision Pro mixed reality headset, but it seems they’ll have to wait longer than expected.

Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that this more affordable model won’t be available until after 2027. In the meantime, Apple is set to update its current Vision Pro with a new version featuring an M5 chip, potentially arriving as soon as next year.

No budget option anytime soon

Kuo recently shared that Apple’s plans for a cheaper Vision Pro have been pushed back. He mentioned on X (formerly Twitter) that Apple has postponed the launch of the budget version until beyond 2027. The only major update on the horizon is the M5-equipped Vision Pro, which could make its debut in 2025.

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Kuo drew a parallel to Apple’s previous strategy with the HomePod mini. While it offered a cheaper alternative, it didn’t significantly expand Apple’s market share in the smart speaker arena. This suggests Apple understands that simply cutting costs won’t necessarily create mass appeal for new tech products.

What an affordable Vision Pro could look like

When the budget-friendly Vision Pro eventually launches, it is expected to be priced around $2,000 (approximately Rs. 1,68,000).

To achieve this, Apple may use more economical materials, include a less powerful chip, and potentially remove some standout features, like EyeSight—a feature that displays the user’s eyes on the front screen. The display quality might also see a downgrade to keep the device’s price within reach.

The original Vision Pro, which was revealed at WWDC 2023, carries a hefty starting price of $3,499 (roughly Rs. 2,90,000) for its 256GB base model. It also offers 512GB and 1TB options for those wanting more storage. Running on the M2 processor alongside the R1 chip, the headset operates with visionOS and supports both AR and VR capabilities.

Apple’s focus on refinement

Kuo’s insights indicate that Apple is focusing on refining and enhancing its high-end Vision Pro lineup instead of rushing out a cheaper model. This strategy could be aimed at ensuring strong user engagement and showcasing the real-world applications of mixed-reality technology before broadening its product range.

The Vision Pro has already been rolled out in markets like the US, China, Europe, and Japan, highlighting Apple’s commitment to establishing its presence in the premium mixed reality space before venturing into more budget-friendly options.