Apple’s current strategic direction appears to pivot from its high-end Vision Pro VR headset towards the development of a more cost-effective model, in response to underwhelming sales figures for the Vision Pro.
The Vision Pro, which debuted earlier this year, is recognized for its high-quality virtual reality experience but has faced criticism similar to other VR headsets in the market, primarily due to its hefty weight and substantial price tag of $3,499. Despite these challenges, the Vision Pro remains a robust device available at Apple Stores, where its weight and overall user experience can be firsthand evaluated.
Development of the N109 Model
In an effort to address these concerns and expand its market reach, Apple is reportedly developing a less expensive VR headset, internally named N109. This new model aims to retain the high-resolution displays that are a hallmark of the Vision Pro while eliminating some features to reduce the device’s weight by at least one-third. The goal is to create a VR headset that is more user-friendly in terms of both weight and price.
Financially, Apple is exploring component cost reduction strategies to price this new headset between $1,500 and $2,500, positioning it comparably to high-end iPhones. This pricing strategy was detailed in reports by both The Information and Bloomberg, with Bloomberg specifying the target price range in its October report. However, the challenge of maintaining a balance between cost and feature set might push the release beyond the planned 2025 timeline, as indicated by The Information.
Is Apple Still Supporting the Vision Pro Headset?
Despite the focus on a more affordable VR model, Apple is not withdrawing support for the Vision Pro. The company plans to launch the Vision Pro internationally by the end of June and is set to introduce significant updates with visionOS 2 slated for release this fall.
As of now, Apple has not provided official comments regarding the shift in its VR headset strategy or the potential discontinuation of further high-end models.
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Featured Image courtesy of MIKE BLAKE/REUTERS