Apple's 'budget' Vision VR headset will still cost $2000, likely to be launched in 2026

Apple is gearing up to expand its AR/VR offerings with a more affordable version of its Vision headset, expected to hit the market in 2026. Although the term “budget” may be a bit misleading, as the new device will reportedly still cost around $2,000, it’s a notable drop from the hefty $3,499 price tag of the Vision Pro.

This lower-priced Vision headset will have some major trade-offs in terms of hardware. While the Vision Pro is powered by the impressive M2 chip and boasts high-resolution screens, the more affordable version is expected to use a less powerful A-series chip—likely similar to what will be seen in future iPhones.

The display quality will also see a reduction, as the new model won’t pack the same visual punch as its more expensive sibling.

Another notable difference will be the removal of the Eyesight feature, a standout on the Vision Pro that allows others to see the wearer’s eyes via an external display. This budget-friendly version will leave that tech behind, simplifying the design and cutting costs.

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To make the headset lighter and more comfortable, it’s expected that Apple will rely on different materials, likely moving away from the premium construction seen in the Pro version.

In addition to this budget model, Apple is also expected to release a second-generation Vision Pro alongside it. This new Pro version won’t deviate too much from its predecessor but is likely to see improvements in processing power with an upgraded chip.

Apple is reportedly optimistic about the appeal of the lower-cost Vision headset. With a significantly lower price point compared to the Vision Pro, the company expects to sell twice as many units of this new model.

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This strategy would allow Apple to cater to a broader audience interested in AR/VR experiences, offering a choice between high-end and more accessible options.

Both models are expected to make their debut in 2026, but Apple’s ambitions don’t stop there.

The tech giant is also continuing its work on augmented reality smart glasses, which would be a part of the expanding Vision lineup. While the smart glasses are still further down the road, the arrival of these two headsets could mark the beginning of Apple’s next major leap in immersive technology.