Apple’s Vision Pro Plans: What’s Known and What Might Be Next
Recent reporting suggests Apple paused talks about a cheaper Vision Pro mixed reality headset. The outlet MacRumors cites statements from Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known industry analyst at TF International Securities, as the basis for this view.
Kuo did not spell out the reasons behind shelving a budget version, but he did offer a timeline. Mass production of the new generation Vision Pro is expected to begin no later than the second half of 2027. He adds that no hardware refresh for the original Vision Pro will take place before that milestone.
The analyst also projected that Apple would move 400,000 to 600,000 first-generation Vision Pro units by the end of 2024. While that would represent a solid start, he believes it will take longer than some market observers expect for Vision Pro to become Apple’s leading consumer product.
Early rumors have floated the idea that a budget Vision Pro could be priced near prior iPhone models. Investors and enthusiasts have watched closely to see whether Apple plans a more affordable option in the MR space.
When it launched, the original Vision Pro MR headset carried a price tag of $3,500 and was positioned as a premium device for immersive experiences, productivity, and media consumption. The conversation around a potential budget variant remains part of broader discussions about how Apple might broaden access to mixed reality technology while preserving the high-end capabilities that define the Vision Pro lineup.
Observers who have followed Apple’s hardware strategy note that camera quality has reliably drawn attention on recent iPhone iterations. The ongoing evolution of imaging sensors and software could influence how Apple approaches mixed reality devices in the near term, particularly if the company aims to appeal to a wider audience with features that blend real-world and digital experiences.
Overall, the market is watching to see how Apple balances price, performance, and long-term roadmap for Vision Pro. The coming years could determine whether the headset remains a niche luxury or grows into a foundational platform for Apple’s ecosystem across work, education, and home use. In the meantime, industry insiders continue to weigh potential price points, production timelines, and the pace at which Apple might push new hardware to market.
At present, the expectation is that Apple will focus on refining the Vision Pro family and expanding its capabilities as it scales production. The company’s approach to pricing, availability, and feature set will likely influence consumer demand and competitive dynamics within the mixed reality space in North America and beyond. The discussions around a budget-minded option illustrate how Apple is evaluating the balance between affordability and premium user experiences in a rapidly evolving market.
Notes from industry analysts indicate a careful calibration of expectations. While initial sales projections for the first-generation unit are modest, optimism remains that Vision Pro could evolve into a defining product as technology, content, and applications mature. The trajectory for the Vision Pro line will hinge on how effectively Apple can translate high-end hardware into practical benefits for everyday users, while ensuring accessibility and a compelling total value proposition over time.