Despite data indicating that Apple's mixed reality (MR) headset Vision Pro is struggling to maintain its initial sales momentum, with early excitement giving way to weak sales and some returns, Apple remains committed to developing the next generation of the product. The company is also persisting with its plans to create smart glasses.
According to a Bloomberg report, Apple has begun developing the second generation of the Vision Pro, focusing on improving its performance, adding new features, and enhancing comfort levels. However, there is currently no timeline for the launch of this new device.
At the same time, Apple is reportedly working on a more affordable entry-level product, possibly named "Vision." This version would restrict certain functions, reduce display quality, and decrease battery capacity and the number of sensors to lower both cost and weight. Apple reportedly aims to price this Apple Vision below US$1,500, targeting a broader market, with a potential release as early as 2025.
Furthermore, Apple has not abandoned its plans to develop a product similar to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, co-developed by Meta and EssilorLuxottica. Apple aims to create a pair of smart glasses, potentially called "Apple Glasses," with true augmented reality (AR) functionality. However, this project faces significant technical challenges and has been put on hold with no concrete timeline. It is expected that this might be realized even later than the Vision Pro 2.
Apple might consider setting a more modest goal, similar to the US$329 Ray-Ban Meta, which, although lacking AR functionality, allows users to easily take photos or videos, chat with voice assistants, and even answer questions about their surroundings after the introduction of Meta AI.
Industry observers believe that if Apple could develop a pair of smart glasses that support Apple Intelligence, integrated with Apple Maps, Siri, bone conduction audio, and sold at a reasonable price, it could be an innovative product with strong sales potential.
Apple expected to update entry-level iPad and iPad Mini
Reports indicate that Apple is about to release two new iPad models from product lines that haven't been updated for at least two years: the 11G entry-level iPad and the 7th-generation iPad mini.
The last update for the entry-level iPad was in October 2022. The 11th generation's main update is expected to be the processor specifications, while other external design and display aspects remain uncertain.
The previous generation iPad was equipped with the A14 Bionic chipset. Based on the typical two-year lag in processor updates for entry-level iPads, the 11th generation might feature the A16 Bionic processor. However, considering Apple's strong push for Apple Intelligence, it's possible that Apple could change its strategy and introduce the A17 Pro or A18 chipset to support AI functions in the new model.
The iPad mini, last updated in September 2021, is expected to support the Apple Pencil Pro for the first time and may also be upgraded to the latest A18 chip. Earlier rumors suggested that the iPad mini 7 might feature a horizontally oriented front camera design. However, given that the iPad mini is more often used in portrait orientation, there may be no need to change the camera position.
Apple Watch SE to use plastic chassis to target children's market
Bloomberg also hinted that Apple might release a new low-level Apple Watch SE with a plastic chassis, marking the first time the company has used plastic for the Apple Watch. This shift aims to reduce production costs, with plastic being about half the cost of aluminum. This price reduction would allow Apple to better compete with rivals like Samsung Electronics.
A plastic chassis also allows for bolder colors, making it more suitable for children. With several US states recently moving to ban children from bringing phones to school, the Apple Watch could become an important alternative for parents to stay connected with and track their children's whereabouts.
