Apple continues looking into using lower-resolution displays for a budget-friendly version of its Vision Pro spatial computing headset, according to recent reports. They cite resolution much lower than what Apple refers to as “4K for each eye” in the original Vision Pro.
Budget-friendly version of Vision Pro could incorporate much lower resolution
Apple received OLED display samples from Japan Display with a pixel density of around 1,500 pixels per inch, reported The Elec. That’s much lower than the 3,391 PPI displays used in the current Vision Pro, which launched earlier this year starting at $3,500.
By reducing the pixel density, Apple could maintain good visuals while substantially cutting down on manufacturing costs. Indeed, reports as far back as June indicate that Apple sent requests for information to various display manufacturers, including Samsung Display and LG Display. Apple reportedly asked for OLED displays with pixel densities of around 1,700 PPI, suggesting the company is exploring multiple options for its cheaper headset.
Possible changes in use and materials
Bloomberg in June said a cheaper Vision Pro could require a tethered iPhone or Mac to operate, which would allow Apple to save money on processing power and components needed to make it a standalone device. The story also said an existing prototype of the lower-cost headset, codenamed N107, offered a narrower field of view compared to Vision Pro.
Apple could even eliminate the EyeSight feature — which “reveals your eyes on the front of your Apple Vision Pro, and lets those nearby know when you’re using apps or fully immersed in an experience,” according to Apple — and use lighter-weight build materials.
Notably, the sample provided by Japan Display reportedly uses glass core substrate (GCS) OLED technology. That’s different from the OLED-on-Silicon (OLEDoS) displays currently used in the Vision Pro. This shift in display technology could further contribute to a cost reduction.
Competitive market
Regardless, the development of the device apparently remains at an early stage. DigiTimes suggested it could take two to three years before the lower-cust Vision Pro enters mass production. That’s a lot later than previous predictions that we could see a late 2025 launch. In the meantime, competition among display manufacturers to secure Apple’s orders probably will intensify. Companies from South Korea, Japan and Taiwan may all compete for a piece of the potentially lucrative contract.
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
