Apple is developing a new, lighter Vision headset
Apple is developing a new mixed reality headset that could be lighter and cheaper than the current Vision Pro. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the project has been given the internal designation N224. The company is currently exploring four design options, but a final decision has not yet been made.
What is known
One of the options under consideration involves moving the battery and computing components into a separate unit. This would reduce the weight of the headset itself and decrease the strain on the user’s head. However, there is no consensus within Apple: some executives support this design, while others fear that an additional unit would compromise usability.
To reduce weight, the company is also experimenting with chassis materials, including plastic, titanium, and other metals. The final design has not yet been approved.
Apple intends to make its new headset more affordable than the Vision Pro, but the estimated cost is unknown. It is also unclear which features of the current model will be retained and which will have to be cut to lower the price.
Apple is shifting its priorities
At the same time, the company is paying more attention to compact wearable electronics. Specifically, Apple is developing smart glasses, with a potential release targeted for late 2027, and is also exploring the possibility of creating AirPods with cameras and a screenless fitness tracker. Against this backdrop, the division responsible for Vision hardware is undergoing staff layoffs.
Release dates
Project N224 is in the early stages and has not yet been approved for mass production. Apple may change it or abandon development entirely. According to Gurman’s estimate, if the company does release a new headset, it will not appear before late 2028 or early 2029.
