Apple Reportedly Fast-Tracks XR Future: Vision Pro 2 Enters Production, Launch Expected This Year
In a surprising turn of events, industry sources cited by IT Home have indicated that Apple’s highly anticipated second-generation XR headset, potentially dubbed the Vision Pro 2, has already entered mass production and is on track for a release within this calendar year. This news contradicts earlier reports from prominent analysts suggesting a later launch date.
According to the report, multiple independent sources within Apple’s supply chain have confirmed that key components for the Vision Pro 2 are now in active production. Notably, Lens Technology is reportedly the exclusive supplier of the device’s glass panels, while Changying Precision is providing the shell. Several other electronic component suppliers are also reportedly working diligently to fulfill orders, signaling a significant push towards mass production.
A Quick Follow-Up to the Original Vision Pro
This development comes just over a year after the initial unveiling of the first-generation Apple Vision Pro in June 2023, which subsequently launched in overseas markets in February 2024. The first iteration of Apple’s foray into spatial computing boasted impressive specifications, including a custom M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, alongside a dedicated R1 chip for real-time sensor processing. Its micro-OLED display offered a stunning 23 million pixels in total, exceeding the pixel density of many 4K televisions for each eye. The device, weighing between 600-650 grams and offering approximately 2.5 hours of 2D video playback, carried a premium starting price of US$3,499.
Contradicting Analyst Predictions
The current report from IT Home stands in contrast to recent insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who in January of this year stated that Apple had no plans for a Vision Pro refresh in 2025, suggesting a potential delay until 2026. Gurman had indicated that Apple’s immediate focus was on developing a more affordable head-mounted display.
Furthermore, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously predicted that the Vision Pro 2 would enter production in the latter half of 2025, potentially featuring an upgraded M5 chip and support for “Apple Intelligence.” However, details regarding other hardware enhancements have remained scarce. Kuo had also suggested a later 2027 launch for Apple’s rumored lower-priced headset.
Implications for Apple’s XR Strategy
The apparent commencement of mass production for the Vision Pro 2 suggests a significant acceleration in Apple’s XR roadmap. While specific details about the second-generation device remain under wraps, the industry will be keenly watching for potential improvements in areas such as weight reduction, battery life, processing power, display technology, and potentially a more accessible price point, although the latter remains uncertain given the advanced components involved.
If the current reports prove accurate, a 2025 launch for the Vision Pro 2 would solidify Apple’s commitment to the burgeoning XR market and potentially put pressure on competitors in the space. The coming months are likely to reveal more concrete information about Apple’s next step in spatial computing.
