Following the mixed performance of the Apple Vision Pro, Apple is stepping up its efforts to expand its mixed-reality lineup with something new — a lighter, more affordable Vision Air headset.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple could unveil this budget-friendly Vision Air headset by late 2025 or early 2026.
As the name suggests, Vision Air — a successor to the premium Vision Pro — promises to be significantly lighter and more accessible in price. With Vision Pro’s high cost and heavy design hampering its mainstream adoption, Apple appears ready to tackle both criticisms head-on.
Whether Vision Air will fully replace Vision Pro or exist as a more affordable alternative remains unclear. However, the lighter weight and lower cost signal that Apple has listened carefully to customer feedback and is pivoting accordingly. The success of this upcoming device could reshape how the Vision Pro is remembered within the broader AR/VR landscape.
Two successors on the horizon: Vision Air and a Mac-tethered model
While fans are buzzing about a cheaper Vision Pro, Gurman’s report hints that Apple’s plans go even further. The company is reportedly working on two new successors:
- A lighter, standalone Vision Air.
- A Mac-tethered mixed-reality headset aimed at professional users who need high-end performance.
These strategic moves suggest Apple is serious about carving a lasting space in the AR/VR industry — and not just experimenting.
A lighter design with titanium construction
One major complaint about the original Vision Pro was its weight. Apple is addressing that by focusing heavily on weight reduction and comfort improvements in the Vision Air.
Reports suggest Apple will swap the internal aluminum structure for titanium — similar to its approach with the latest Pro iPhones. This change should make the Vision Air significantly lighter without sacrificing strength.
Expect the outer design to largely mirror the Vision Pro’s sleek aluminum look, but with the possibility of a fresh color palette to set it apart.
iGeeksBlog take: A smart move toward mainstream AR/VR
Apple’s push to create a more budget-friendly mixed-reality headset reflects its long-term strategy to dominate this emerging market, even after Vision Pro’s rocky start.
However, one big question remains: how will Apple manage to cut costs while grappling with ongoing U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports?
With a potential launch between late 2025 and mid-2026, all eyes are now on Apple. Can Vision Air succeed where Vision Pro struggled — and finally make mixed reality a part of everyday life?
We can’t wait to find out. Are you excited about the Apple Vision Air headset? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
