Apple is reportedly in the process of developing a more affordable version of its first-ever mixed reality (MR) headset, the Vision Pro. While the device hasn’t been officially announced and no release date has been set, industry insiders speculate that it might hit the market by the end of 2025. This new version is expected to feature larger displays with lower resolutions to keep costs down, according to a recent report.
The Vision Pro’s New Display Strategy
The Elec has reported that the more budget-friendly Vision Pro may come equipped with 2.1-inch OLED-on-Silicon (OLEDoS) displays. These screens are significantly larger than the current Vision Pro’s 1.42-inch displays, but they will have a lower resolution of 1,700 pixels per inch (ppi). This adjustment is likely a strategic move by Apple to reduce manufacturing costs while still offering a compelling user experience.
Supply Chain Challenges and Solutions
Currently, Sony is Apple’s primary supplier for these high-tech microdisplays. However, Sony’s production capacity is limited to 900,000 panels per year, which translates to enough supply for only 450,000 headsets annually since each device requires two screens. To address this limitation and ensure a stable supply chain, Apple has reportedly issued a request for information (RFI) to other leading display manufacturers, including Samsung and LG. This RFI is aimed at assessing their production capabilities and potentially expanding Apple’s supplier base. It remains unclear whether Samsung and LG will respond positively to this request, but their involvement could significantly boost production capacity and support the anticipated demand.
The Cost Factor
One of the major cost drivers for the current Vision Pro headset is its high-resolution displays, which feature a pixel density of 3,400 ppi. These screens alone reportedly cost around $456 (approximately Rs. 38,000), contributing to the overall high price of $3,499 (roughly Rs. 2,90,000). By opting for larger but lower-resolution displays, Apple aims to reduce the cost of the new headset, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
Balancing Cost and Quality
While the move to lower-resolution displays represents a significant downgrade in terms of pixel density, it also paves the way for a more affordable product. This balance between cost and quality is crucial for Apple as it seeks to expand its market share in the emerging MR space. If successful, the new Vision Pro could attract a wider range of consumers who are eager to experience mixed reality but are deterred by the current high price point.
My Opinion
Apple’s plans for a more affordable Vision Pro headset highlight the company’s strategic approach to making mixed reality technology more accessible. By leveraging larger, lower-resolution displays and potentially expanding its supplier base, Apple aims to reduce production costs and offer a competitively priced product. While there are still many uncertainties, including the response from potential new suppliers and the exact launch date, the prospect of a cheaper Vision Pro is exciting news for both tech enthusiasts and consumers. As we await further developments, it’s clear that Apple’s innovation in the MR space continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible.