Apple has announced significant upgrades to its Vision Pro headset, introducing the powerful M5 chip and a new Dual Knit Band designed for enhanced comfort. This marks the first hardware update for the Vision Pro since its launch in February 2024, with the headset initially featuring the M2 chip. The upgraded model, priced at $3,499 in the United States, £3,199 in the United Kingdom, and AU$5,999 in Australia, is set to begin shipping on October 22, 2025.
The Vision Pro (M5) boasts a 10-core CPU and a next-generation 10-core GPU, which Apple claims will enhance performance across various applications in the newly released visionOS 26. This upgrade is expected to allow the headset’s displays to render 10% more pixels and support a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, facilitating clearer visuals during immersive experiences.
To further improve user comfort, Apple has introduced the Dual Knit Band as an accessory for the headset. This new band combines elements from existing Apple bands, featuring a strap that goes over the head and one at the back, designed to distribute weight more effectively. According to Apple, this will provide a more comfortable fit for users, particularly during extended use.
The M5 chip promises enhanced processing capabilities, similar to those found in the latest iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models. It includes a 16-core Neural Engine that accelerates AI tasks, allowing for up to 50% faster performance when using features like photo conversion into Spatial Scenes. Additionally, users can expect quicker load times and smoother web browsing due to the improved hardware.
The upgraded Vision Pro will also feature support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a development that allows for more detailed graphics and realistic lighting effects in virtual environments. This advancement holds great potential for game developers and content creators, enabling them to craft more immersive experiences.
Battery life has also seen improvements, with the upgraded model achieving 2.5 hours of daily use and 3 hours of video playback—an increase of 30 minutes compared to the original model. Despite these enhancements, the battery pack remains unchanged, meaning users will still need to connect it to a power source for longer sessions.
While this update is not a complete redesign, it strategically positions the Vision Pro to compete with emerging technologies, particularly with Samsung’s upcoming Project Moohan Android XR headset, set to be unveiled on October 21, 2025. For current Vision Pro owners, the Dual Knit Band is available for $99 in the U.S., £99 in the U.K., and AU$169 in Australia, making it a viable accessory for enhancing comfort.
As Apple continues to expand its presence in the virtual and augmented reality market, the advancements in the Vision Pro are essential in maintaining its competitive edge. With upcoming features like live NBA games in the Apple Immersive format, including broadcasts of select Los Angeles Lakers games, the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality immersive content is evident. As the technology landscape evolves, Apple appears poised to redefine user experience in virtual environments.
