Following a somewhat lukewarm public reception to the initial Apple Vision Pro, largely attributed to its significant weight and premium price tag, Apple is reportedly considering a product designed to attract a broader customer base. Insights from the highly reliable Apple insider, Mark Gurman, indicate that this upcoming VR device will be significantly lighter and more budget-friendly. This product is currently rumored to be named the Apple Vision Air.

Adding credence to this speculation is Apple’s recent trend of using the “Air” moniker for lighter versions of its key products, as seen with the rumored thinner iPhone 17 Air. Gurman himself states, “All signs point to the lighter model arriving between the end of this year and the first half of 2026.“

The true challenge for Apple lies in delivering a VR headset that is not only lighter and cheaper but also a powerhouse of performance, on par with its competitors. Companies like Meta have already achieved significant success with their Meta Quest, offering compelling features and functionality in a lighter form factor at a more accessible price point. If Apple can successfully address user feedback regarding weight and cost in this potential Vision Air release in 2025, we could witness genuine competition emerge with the likes of Meta.

Furthermore, Apple’s rival Samsung is also anticipated to launch its own VR headset, the Galaxy XR, in 2025. This intensifies the pressure on Apple to expedite the rollout of the new Vision Air. Any significant delay could hinder Apple’s ability to secure a strong foothold in the burgeoning VR headset market.