Following the launch of its first-generation spatial computer, Apple appears poised to expand its Vision lineup significantly sooner than anticipated. Recent whispers suggesting a successor to the Vision Pro could arrive by late 2025 or early 2026 have gained substantial credibility. Corroborating these leaks, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple isn't just working on one follow-up device, but is actively developing two distinct new models aimed at broadening the appeal and capabilities of its spatial computing platform. This strategic move comes despite reports of underwhelming initial sales for the original Vision Pro, signaling Apple's firm commitment to the product category. One path Apple is exploring involves creating a more accessible version of the headset. This model is reportedly designed to be both lighter and more affordable than the current $3,499 Vision Pro. According to Gurman, development points towards this lighter iteration potentially launching between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026. The primary goal seems to be making the technology more consumer-friendly, potentially addressing some of the barriers to entry presented by the original's price and perhaps its weight. However, industry observers note some uncertainty remains regarding its market positioning: it's unclear whether this lighter model will directly replace the existing Vision Pro or be introduced alongside it as a more budget-conscious, perhaps non-Pro, alternative – potentially akin to an 'Apple Vision Air'. Simultaneously, Apple is pursuing a different direction focused on enhanced performance with a second potential successor. This version is conceptualized as a Mac-tethered device. By connecting directly to a Mac via a cable, the headset could offload the demanding processing tasks to the computer. This approach offers several potential advantages. It could allow for an even smaller and lighter headset design, as much of the processing hardware wouldn't need to be onboard. Furthermore, leveraging the power of a Mac could result in significantly improved responsiveness and graphical fidelity, catering to professional users or those prioritizing maximum performance and immersion for tasks like high-end creative work or potentially even gaming, aligning with a common use case observed with the current model – tethering to a Mac. The development of these two distinct models underscores a strategic diversification by Apple within the nascent spatial computing market. Rather than abandoning the Vision platform due to initial sales figures, the company seems intent on adapting its approach. By potentially offering options catering to different needs and price points – one focusing on accessibility and affordability, the other on peak performance via Mac integration – Apple aims to cultivate a broader user base. This dual-pronged strategy suggests a long-term vision for spatial computing, acknowledging that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be optimal for market growth at this stage. Apple appears to be learning from the initial launch and iterating quickly to refine its place in this emerging technological landscape. As development continues, the exact specifications, naming, and release timing for these potential new Vision Pro models remain speculative. Whether the lighter version arrives first as a mainstream entry point or if both models launch closer together is yet to be seen. What seems clear, however, is Apple's continued investment and belief in the future of spatial computing. The exploration of both more affordable and more powerful, specialized options indicates a flexible and adaptive strategy aimed at making the Vision platform a more integral part of its ecosystem in the coming years, moving beyond the initial niche offering towards wider adoption and utility.
