Apple’s AR/VR venture, the Vision Pro, is preparing for its first hardware update a year and a half after its launch. According to reliable industry sources, the new model, expected to be unveiled later this year, will be powered by the Apple M4 chip. However, the real revolution is expected to target the device’s most frequently criticized aspect, not its processor speed, but its comfort.
While the first-generation Vision Pro captivated with its futuristic capabilities, its $3,499 price tag also garnered considerable attention, along with its practical use issues. A common complaint from users was the device’s hefty front-end weight and the resulting feeling of pressure during extended use. For many, the Solo Knit Band and Dual Loop Band options Apple included in the box proved inadequate to offset this weight. This created a large market for third-party accessory manufacturers, leading to criticism that Apple prioritized comfort over design.
Now, Apple is getting a second chance to address this fundamental issue. According to reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the most significant innovations in the new Vision Pro with the M4 chip will be a completely redesigned headband.
As Mark Gurman noted, “The updated Vision Pro will feature a faster processor and components better capable of handling AI. It will also feature a new strap that will make the headset easier to wear for extended periods.”
This seemingly minor change is actually crucial for the Vision Pro’s future. This comfort-focused update, which could be described as a “short-term solution,” will demonstrate how seriously Apple is taking user feedback.
What will the new Vision Pro be like?
The new model’s M4 chip might seem like a minor upgrade at first glance. However, it aligns with Apple’s overall strategy. Featuring a more powerful and efficient Neural Engine, the M4 will enable on-device AI features and more complex spatial computing applications. This will enable Vision Pro to evolve from a mere content consumption device into a more capable platform for productivity and creativity.
