The hardware teams at Apple are currently exploring several new designs for future mixed reality hardware. Following the mixed reaction to the original headset, the tech company is looking at different physical shapes and sizes to find what works best for everyday users. It wants to make its future wearable devices much lighter and more comfortable for long sessions, which could change how people use the technology.
The company wants to make a lighter and cheaper headset
The hardware group is reportedly testing a scaled-down version of its premium headset. This model aims to lower the price point by using less expensive materials and removing some of the external displays.
A major goal for this project is weight reduction. The original Vision Pro was quite heavy, so engineers are trying to shift processing power or battery components to keep the main unit light on the face. Making the device easier to wear for a two-hour movie or a long work session is a top priority for the design team.
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Smart glasses offer a completely different path for future wearables
The team is also looking at standard smart glasses as a viable alternative. This form factor would look much more like regular eyewear, similar to recent hardware released by competitors in the space.
Rather than full virtual reality, these glasses would focus on simple notifications, audio features, and basic digital overlays. Building regular glasses requires solving massive battery and display challenges, but it offers a much more approachable product for regular buyers.
Under the leadership of new chief John Ternus, the company seems open to taking a different path if the heavy headset approach proves too limited for the mass market.
These internal tests show that the company knows its first attempt at spatial computing was only a starting point. By exploring both a cheaper headset and lightweight glasses, it is keeping all options open. The final choice will likely determine if face computers become common everyday items or remain niche gadgets.
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