Apple Vision Pro has been given a long-overdue performance boost with Apple confirming today (October 15) the spatial computing headset is receiving the brand new M5 chip alongside a refined Dual Knit Band for more comfort.
The upgraded Vision Pro joins the new MacBook Pro and iPad Pro which will also benefit from the chip. But the good news is we won't see a price increase for this new model.
Starting at $3,499, the new Vision Pro will be available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage capacities. Pre-orders for the upgraded Vision Pro (are we calling this Vision Pro 2?) will start today for the U.S. and U.K. with general availability coming on Wednesday, October 22.
This latest version improves performance, display rendering, battery life, and comfort and will be able to make the most of new features revealed with visionOS 26 as well as Apple's Immersive content.
The bad news? Apple hasn't been able to reduce the weight of the device which was the one thing I really disliked about Vision Pro when I tried it last year. In fact, this new version increases the weight to 26.4 to 28.2 ounces over the previous model which weighs 21.2 to 22.9 ounces.
However, adding the M5 chip will turbocharge the abilities of the Vision Pro and, according to Apple, the upgraded model can render 10 per cent more pixels on the custom micro-OLED displays compared to the previous generation. That means a sharper image with crisper text and more detailed visuals.
The new Vision Pro can also increase the refresh rate up to 120Hz for reduced motion blur when users look at their physical surroundings, and an even smoother experience when using Mac Virtual Display. If you're going all-in with Vision Pro for productivity, this could be a massive advantage.
Probably, the most immediate impact on day-to-day use will be the multitasking improvements. On the current M2 chip, Vision Pro does experience moments of slowdown when you have multiple apps open.
Furthermore, the M5 chip efficiency will have a knock-on effect on battery life with Apple saying the new Vision Pro will now support up to two and a half hours of general use, and up to three hours of video playback on a single charge.
Dual Knit Band
As well as boosting the performance, Apple's upgraded Vision Pro now features a Dual Knit Band that "delivers an even more comfortable fit for users".
The band features upper and lower straps that are 3D-knitted as a single piece to create a unique dual-rib structure. Apple says this gives cushioning, breathability, and stretch.
While this will come as standard on the newer Vision Pro, it's also available to purchase separately (for $99) and will be compatible with the first generation Vision Pro. It uses a dual-function Fit Dial that allows users to make adjustments to achieve their ideal fit. So, while it comes in small, medium and large sizings, each wearer should be able to find the fit that works best for them.
What's missing?
If I'm being critical, beyond just a reduction in weight, there's perhaps more Apple could have done here. Some rumors suggested a new R2 chip was in the pipeline, which could shoulder more of the input processes from the device's 12 cameras.
The current R1 takes data not just from the cameras but also the six microphones to stream the end result to your eyeballs in under 12 milliseconds. Now, it's unlikely the average user will notice an improvement on 12 milliseconds, so we can probably forgive Apple this one.
And while it's good news that Apple hasn't increased the price, it's still a $3,499 headset and any hope of a slight price reduction are a long way from happening yet. Finally, Apple still hasn't found a way to sever the device from its tethered battery pack. When that day finally happens, I predict Vision Pro fans will take to the streets in celebration.
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