Next Apple Vision Headset Could Have a Big Drawback

The next Apple Vision headset could have a drawback: it may require being tethered to an external device. This is a change from the current Apple Vision Pro that may be made in an effort to bring down the price of the next headset, according to a new report.

The Apple Vision Pro excited a lot of fans of the company as it revealed that it would be creating a standalone mixed reality headset. However, some balked at the Apple Vision Pro's price, which started at a whopping $3499. The Apple Vision Pro offers many functions and focuses that current VR headset models don't, like the ability to see the user's eyes while they're using the device, or its mixed-reality focus over virtual reality. Apple appears to be aware that the price has led to some would-be users skipping the device, and is reportedly looking into ways to make the next version of the headset less expensive.

In a new report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Gurman states that the next version of the Apple Vision headset, codenamed N107, is making certain concessions in order to bring down the cost. One of these will allegedly be a narrower field of view. However, the big standout is that the new device may require an external iPhone or Mac in order to function. Users would need to tether the headset to one of these devices, which would provide external processing power, reducing the amount of high-cost hardware needing to be packed into the headset itself.

This seems like a fairly logical choice on Apple's part, as Apple buyers are often loyal to the brand. Apple Vision headset buyers would likely already own an iPhone or Mac available to act as an external support. This move could encourage more people to buy an Apple Vision device while simultaneously encouraging the use of the Apple ecosystem as a whole. However, some users could see keeping a connected external device with them at all times as a hassle. This could put the Apple headset at a disadvantage compared to the Meta Quest, which can be externally tethered but is intended for full standalone use. Not having to worry about getting tangled in cables and wires is a luxury some fans might not be willing to give up.

What Else Will Change with the Apple Vision Headset?

Prior reports regarding the Apple Vision have indicated that the company is putting an Apple Vision Pro 2 on the back burner in order to focus on the more affordable variant of the original device first. Previously, it was suggested that the Apple Vision might cut the Eyesight feature that lets other people see the user's eyes while they're wearing the headset. This would presumably bring down the cost significantly, but could also make it less practical to wear in group scenarios.

At the moment, the majority of these reports have gone unconfirmed by Apple itself, so any of these potential alterations could be subject to change. Whether fans are looking forward to a less expensive variant, an even more powerful version, or both, it seems there will be more exciting reveals in Apple's future.