Apple has refreshed its Vision Pro for the first time since it launched in the UK — and cut £300 from the price tag at the same time.
Crucially, the Californian company isn't calling this new model the Apple Vision Pro 2, which could be an indication of the scale of the update, either that, or like its iPad and MacBook lineup, it doesn't plan on using a sequential numbering system for each new edition, like the iPhone or Apple Watch.
What's new? Apple has fitted Vision Pro with the same custom-designed, ultra-powerful new M5 system-on-a-chip found inside its new iPad Pro and 14-inch MacBook Pro models, which were announced at the same time. The new silicon should deliver faster performance across the board, including speedier AI-powered workflows and improved display rendering, Apple says.
But it's not just about unfiltered speed, with the greater efficiency of the M5 system-on-a-chip delivering better battery life too. Like the first Vision Pro, there's an external, aluminium‑encased battery that slips into your pocket. It supports up to 2.5 hours of general use, or up to 3 hours of video playback.
Apple has designed a new-look strap for Vision Pro, with a new dial that can tighten each section of the knitted band separately with a few quick twists
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In the box, the upgraded Vision Pro comes with a new cushioned Dual Knit Band that promises a more comfortable fit for extended periods using the headset, thanks to a clever counter-weighted design. A dial on the side of the band can be used to adjust the upper and lower straps with a few twists.
The Solo Knitted Band, which was the default option with the original release, is still available as a standalone purchase from the Apple Store.
“With the breakthrough performance of M5, the latest Apple Vision Pro delivers faster performance, sharper details throughout the system, and even more battery life, setting a new standard for what’s possible in spatial computing,” said Bob Borchers, Apple Vice President of Worldwide Product Marketing.
“Paired with the comfortable Dual Knit Band, innovative features in visionOS 26, and all-new Apple Immersive experiences spanning adventure, documentary, music, and sports, spatial computing is even more capable, entertaining, and magical with the new Vision Pro.”
Vision Pro conjures up its circular app icons and translucent menus and applications into your surroundings | APPLE PRESS OFFICE Apple Vision Pro made its debut in the United States in early 2024, before availability expanded to the UK, Europe, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore later that same year. Dubbed a "Spatial Computer," this is the first entry into a major new product category for the $3.49 trillion company since the Apple Watch arrived on British shores back in 2015.
Anyone can book a demo with the Vision Pro in any of Apple's 40 shops across the UK. You'll be able to wear the Vision Pro and experience some of the headline new features in a crash course that takes roughly 30 minutes.
There's no obligation to buy, so it's well worth checking availability. If not, you can read our thoughts on experiencing Vision Pro for the first time.
Earlier this summer, Apple announced visionOS 26, the latest software update for its headset, bringing more immersive spatial experiences, widgets that can be pinned anywhere in your home, improved Personas to communicate with people anywhere on the planet via a digital avatar, and new Apple Intelligence features with support for additional languages.
Since the initial launch, developers have created over 1 million apps and thousands of games on the App Store, blockbuster movies like Superman, Avatar, and Wicked are available to watch in 3D, and live sports coverage is available in immersive new environments with multiple screens.
The new Vision Pro with M5 is available to preorder now, before it'll become available nationwide beginning Wednesday, October 22.