In a strategic move to enhance its foothold in the augmented reality (AR) market, Apple is gearing up to launch a more budget-friendly version of its Vision Pro headset, dubbed the Vision Air. This new device is anticipated to offer a variety of features while being less expensive than its predecessor. Recent reports have surfaced about the Vision Air, highlighting its distinct physical characteristics and innovative design changes that set it apart from the current Vision Pro.
Recently, images of the unreleased Vision Air headset's power cable emerged from a prototype collector, revealing subtle differences from the power cable used in the Vision Pro. According to the leakster known as Kosutami, the upcoming Apple Vision Air will showcase a sleeker overall profile compared to the Vision Pro, indicating Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience. The leaked power cable, featured in a stylish Midnight Blue color option, hints at a fresh aesthetic direction for this new device.
One of the standout features of the Vision Air will be its revised internal components. Apple is reportedly transitioning to a titanium framework for critical elements such as the battery enclosure and internal structures. This change aims to significantly reduce the overall weight of the headset, enhancing comfort for users during extended wear. While the Vision Air will still be housed in an aluminum casing, it will not share the same color options as the Pro version, which is currently available only in silver.
The leaked image reveals an anodized aluminum connector finished in the new Midnight color option, suggesting that the entire Vision Air device could adopt this sleek hue. The choice of color aligns with Apple's strategy of associating the 'Air' lineup with distinct visual themes, differentiating it from the Pro series. This could indicate that Apple is reserving the Midnight Blue for its more affordable models, allowing consumers to enjoy a fresh aesthetic.
Another notable difference between the Vision Air and the Vision Pro lies in the power connectors. The Vision Pro features a power connector with 12 pins, while the leaked details of the Vision Air show a new 8-pin configuration. This reduction could be attributed to the Vision Air's energy-efficient design, although specific details regarding its power consumption have yet to be disclosed. The change in the power connector signifies a broader redesign effort by Apple, particularly concerning the external battery pack.
While the Vision Air introduces several new features and design elements, it appears that some aspects will remain consistent with the Vision Pro. Notably, the audio connector on the Vision Air seems to mirror that of the Vision Pro, suggesting that Apple aims to maintain some level of compatibility between the two models. As the anticipation builds for the official announcement, tech enthusiasts eagerly await more information on this exciting new addition to Apple's AR lineup.
