Apple might release cheaper Vision headset as early as next year: report

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) could release a lower-priced Vision headset as early as next year as it looks to develop mixed reality headsets with greater mass appeal, Bloomberg reported Sunday.

The company’s $3,500 mixed-reality headset Vision Pro has failed to generate much enthusiasm. Sales of the device have not crossed 100,000 units in a quarter since its launch in the U.S. in February, and it is not expected to cross 500,000 units sales this year.

According to the report, the lower-end model would cost about $2,000 and probably use a weaker processor and cheaper materials. It would also lack EyeSight, a feature that shows a user’s eyes on the outside of the headset.

Apple (AAPL) expects sales of the lower-priced headset to be at least double the level of the Vision Pro, the report added.

The company’s Vision Products Group is also considering releasing smart glasses on par with the Meta (META) Ray-Bans, as well as AirPods with cameras, the report said. The goal is to recoup the billions of dollars spent on developing the Vision Pro’s visual intelligence technology by bringing it to more products.

The Information had reported earlier in June that Apple (AAPL) has suspended work on the next version of its pricey Vision mixed-reality headset, and is focused on a more affordable version for greater mass appeal.