Cupertino, California — Apple has announced a significant upgrade to its Vision Pro headset, integrating the new M5 chip and introducing a Dual Knit Band for enhanced comfort. This latest iteration promises to elevate performance, offering improved display rendering, faster AI-driven workflows, and extended battery life. The Vision Pro now supports visionOS 26, which unlocks a range of innovative spatial experiences.
The new Vision Pro is available for pre-order on Apple’s website, with in-store availability starting October 22. Customers can also book demos at Apple Store locations to experience the device firsthand.
A Technological Leap with the M5 Chip
The M5 chip represents a significant leap in processing power for the Vision Pro, built on third-generation 3-nanometer technology. It features a 10-core CPU and GPU, providing higher multithreaded performance and enabling hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading. This allows developers to create more detailed lighting and shadow effects in games and other applications.
According to Apple, the M5 chip enhances the Vision Pro’s display capabilities, rendering 10% more pixels on its custom micro-OLED displays compared to the previous generation. This results in sharper images, crisper text, and more detailed visuals. The device also supports a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, reducing motion blur and enhancing the user experience.
“With the breakthrough performance of M5, the latest Apple Vision Pro delivers faster performance, sharper details throughout the system, and even more battery life, setting a new standard for what’s possible in spatial computing,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing.
Enhanced Comfort with the Dual Knit Band
The introduction of the Dual Knit Band aims to improve user comfort significantly. This band features a unique dual-rib structure, providing cushioning, breathability, and stretch. The lower strap includes flexible fabric ribs with tungsten inserts for additional comfort and stability. The band is available in various sizes and can be purchased separately, compatible with previous Vision Pro models.
The intuitive Fit Dial allows for fine-tuned adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit for each user. This focus on comfort is crucial as Apple continues to push the Vision Pro as a device for extended use across various environments.
visionOS 26: A New Era of Spatial Experiences
visionOS 26 introduces a suite of new features designed to enhance the spatial computing experience. Widgets now integrate seamlessly into the user’s environment, providing easy access to information and entertainment. Enhanced Personas make communication through apps like FaceTime feel more natural.
Generative AI powers new spatial scenes, adding lifelike depth to photos and videos. Users can also enjoy immersive video playback from action cameras, with support for 180-degree, 360-degree, and wide field-of-view formats.
Expanding Content and Gaming Horizons
Apple Vision Pro continues to expand its content offerings, with over 1 million apps available, including more than 3,000 built specifically for visionOS. Users can explore new apps and games, transforming their physical space into interactive environments.
The Vision Pro also enhances the gaming experience with ultra-high-resolution displays, advanced Spatial Audio, and support for popular game controllers. New titles and immersive experiences are continually being added, including support for the PlayStation VR2 Sense controller.
Pro Users and Enterprises: A New Frontier
For professional users and businesses, the Vision Pro offers new tools to enhance productivity and creativity. Artists, photographers, and filmmakers can take advantage of the device’s capabilities to create and edit with precision and accuracy.
Enterprises are leveraging the Vision Pro to streamline operations and develop innovative solutions across various industries, from healthcare to automotive design.
Commitment to Sustainability
Apple remains committed to sustainability, with the Vision Pro featuring 100% recycled aluminum in its frame and battery enclosure, and other recycled materials throughout its construction. This aligns with Apple’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Availability and Pricing
The Apple Vision Pro with the M5 chip and Dual Knit Band starts at $3,499 and is available in multiple storage capacities. It is available for pre-order in several countries, with broader availability set for October 22. Additional accessories, including the Dual Knit Band and Logitech Muse, are also available for purchase.
As Apple continues to innovate in the realm of spatial computing, the Vision Pro represents a significant step forward, blending advanced technology with user-centric design and sustainability.
