According to media reports, Apple's second-generation XR headset (possibly named Vision Pro 2) has successfully entered the mass production stage and is expected to be officially released within the year. This news has attracted widespread attention in the technology industry.
Looking back at the development of Apple's first-generation XR headset, the Vision Pro, it made a stunning debut in June 2023 and began sales in overseas markets in February 2024. However, market feedback was less than satisfactory, and sales fell short of expectations. There were even reports that the Vision Pro was discontinued in November 2024, with a lifespan of less than 20 months. But Apple did not give up on the XR field; instead, it continued to increase investment, and the research and development and production of the second-generation product progressed steadily.
Vision Pro (Image source: Apple)
Currently, production of key components for the Vision Pro 2 is proceeding at full speed. Lens Technology, leveraging its expertise and superior quality in glass panels, has become the exclusive supplier of glass panels for the Vision Pro 2; Changying Precision is responsible for providing the casing, ensuring the product's design and structural strength meet Apple's high standards. In addition, some electronic circuit component suppliers are also working diligently to fulfill orders to meet production demands.
Although the specific features of Vision Pro 2 have not yet been officially revealed, industry insiders who have experienced early demos indicate that the final version of Vision Pro 2 is expected to make significant optimizations in computing power and display. The increased computing power will allow the device to run various applications more smoothly, providing users with a more immersive experience; while the display optimizations may further improve image clarity, color saturation, and contrast, making users feel as if they are in a realistic yet fantastical virtual world.
For reference, the first-generation Vision Pro device weighed 600-650 grams, offered 2.5 hours of 2D video playback, and featured an M2 and R1 chip, a Micro OLED display with a total of 23 million pixels. While the first-generation product had certain limitations, Apple's strength in technological research and product innovation should not be underestimated. It is believed that Apple will learn from these experiences and improve the performance, battery life, and weight of the Vision Pro 2 to meet the growing demands of consumers.
With the Vision Pro 2 entering mass production, the XR market is poised for a new revolution. As a leader in the technology industry, Apple's release of its second-generation XR headset will have a profound impact on the entire industry. Whether the Vision Pro 2 can achieve market success and deliver a completely new experience for consumers remains to be seen.
