Apple has officially launched an upgraded version of its Vision Pro headset, now powered by the advanced M5 chip the same processor that will feature in the upcoming iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models. This marks a major performance leap from the original Vision Pro, which was built on Apple’s M2 chip. The new model maintains the same price tag of $3,499 for the 256GB version but introduces meaningful enhancements in both speed and comfort.
Powerful Performance with the M5 Chip
The M5 chip represents Apple’s latest step forward in silicon technology. It features a 10-core GPU with support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading, providing improved realism in lighting, shadows, and reflections. This allows games like Control and other spatial experiences to look more immersive and visually dynamic.
Apple claims the new chip makes the Vision Pro up to 10% faster in rendering pixels, while also improving multitasking, app loading, and web browsing performance. The M5’s advanced neural capabilities enhance spatial computing experiences, letting users enjoy smoother transitions and better AI-assisted interactions in virtual environments.
Sharper Visuals and Better Efficiency
The upgraded Vision Pro boasts 10% more pixels on its micro-OLED displays, delivering a sharper and more detailed visual experience. This improvement, paired with the M5’s enhanced graphics engine, ensures crisper visuals when watching movies, playing AR games, or using productivity apps.
Battery performance has also seen a modest improvement. The M5 Vision Pro can now deliver up to 2.5 hours of general use and 3 hours of video playback, slightly extending battery life from the previous generation.
Comfort Upgrade: The Dual Knit Band
Apple has introduced a redesigned Dual Knit Band that enhances comfort and stability. This new head strap includes a top support band for better balance and reduced pressure during extended use. The band combines the softness of the Solo Knit design with the adjustability of the Dual Loop Band, ensuring a snug fit for different head sizes.
Existing Vision Pro users can purchase the Dual Knit Band separately for $99, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking improved comfort.
Future Plans: Smart Glasses on the Horizon
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is already shifting some of its focus from the Vision Pro toward developing smart glasses. The company reportedly paused work on a lighter, cheaper version of the Vision Pro to prioritize two new eyewear models: one without a display that pairs with iPhones (expected in 2027), and another with a built-in screen to compete directly with Meta’s Ray-Ban Display (expected in 2028).
Pricing, Availability, and Market Outlook
The upgraded M5 Vision Pro is available for pre-order now and will begin shipping on October 22, 2025. It retains its starting price of $3,499 and will be available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants.
While Apple continues refining its spatial computing ecosystem, analysts believe the Vision Pro remains more of a developer-oriented device than a mainstream consumer product. Its success will depend on expanding its app ecosystem and content availability both crucial for driving adoption beyond early enthusiasts.
