Apple Vision Pro Upgraded with M5 Chip – What to Expect

Apple is preparing to upgrade its Vision Pro headset with the powerful M5 chip, marking a major step forward for its mixed-reality device. This move signals Apple’s push to improve performance, enhance user experience, and position itself as an AR/VR market leader. While the M5 chip will certainly bring more power, the real question is whether it will fix users’ biggest issues with Vision Pro.

The Vision Pro: A Brief Overview

Apple introduced the Vision Pro in 2023, calling it a “spatial computing” device that blends augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Unlike traditional VR headsets, which fully immerse users in a digital world, the Vision Pro overlays digital elements onto the real world. This makes it more useful for everyday tasks like work, communication, and entertainment.

Apple’s M2 chip powered the Vision Pro, the same processor used in some MacBooks and iPads. It also had a dedicated R1 chip that handled real-time processing for cameras and sensors. At launch, Apple positioned it as a high-end device with a price tag of $3,499. Despite its impressive technology, many users and critics found the first-generation Vision Pro to have some serious drawbacks.

Why Upgrade to the M5 Chip?

Apple’s decision to upgrade the Vision Pro with the M5 chip is part of its long-term strategy to make mixed reality more powerful and accessible. The M5 chip, expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026, is rumoured to be a major leap forward in processing power, energy efficiency, and Apple Vision Pro AI Update integration.

1. Performance and Speed

The M5 chip is expected to deliver a significant performance boost compared to the M2. With a faster CPU and GPU, the Vision Pro can handle more complex applications, smoother animations, and higher-resolution visuals. This will be especially important for professionals using the headset for 3D modelling, video editing, and gaming.

2. Better Graphics for a More Immersive Experience

One of the biggest complaints about the first Vision Pro was that, despite its high resolution, it didn’t always feel truly immersive. The M5 chip is expected to include a much more powerful GPU, which could improve frame rates, reduce lag, and make AR and VR experiences feel more realistic. Apple may also introduce new display technology to complement the improved graphics.

3. Improved Battery Life

A common issue with the first Vision Pro was its short battery life. Users had to keep the device plugged into an external battery pack, which was inconvenient. The M5 chip is more power-efficient, which could extend battery life and make the headset more practical for everyday use. If Apple also introduced a better battery system, it could solve one of the biggest frustrations of users with first-generation devices.

4. AI and Machine Learning Enhancements

Apple has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence, and the M5 chip is expected to bring advanced AI features to the Vision Pro. This could improve eye tracking, hand gesture recognition, and voice commands, making the device even more intuitive. AI-powered personalization could also adapt the interface based on user habits, making it more user-friendly.

Will the M5 Fix the Vision Pro’s Biggest Problems?

While the M5 chip is a big upgrade, hardware alone won’t fix all of the Vision Pro’s issues. Here are some areas where Apple still needs to improve:

Comfort and Design

The first Vision Pro was heavy and bulky, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods. Even though the M5 chip might make it faster and more efficient, Apple must also make the device lighter and better balanced. A new strap design or improved weight distribution could help users wear the headset for extended periods without strain.

Price Tag

At $3,499, the Vision Pro was far too expensive for most consumers. Even though it was packed with cutting-edge technology, the high price made it more of a niche product for tech enthusiasts and professionals rather than a mainstream device. If Apple wants the Vision Pro to reach a wider audience, it may need to lower the price or introduce a more affordable model.

App and Content Support

One of the biggest challenges facing the Vision Pro is the lack of must-have apps. While Apple has built a solid foundation with FaceTime, Safari, and Apple TV, there are still not enough third-party apps fully exploiting the device’s capabilities. If Apple wants the Vision Pro to succeed, it must work with developers to create a larger ecosystem of apps, games, and productivity tools.

Better Battery Solution

Even with a more power-efficient M5 chip, the Vision Pro will still need a major battery upgrade. Right now, the external battery pack is a major inconvenience. If Apple can build a longer-lasting, integrated battery into the headset, it would make the device more practical for everyday use.

What This Means for the Future of Apple’s AR/VR Strategy

The Vision Pro with the M5 chip is not just an upgrade – it’s a glimpse into Apple’s long-term vision for AR and VR. Apple has made it clear that it sees mixed reality as the future of computing, and this upgrade is a step toward making that vision a reality.

Apple’s Long-Term Plans for AR/VR

Apple has been steadily expanding its investment in AR and VR. The M5 upgrade suggests that Apple is committed to improving the Vision Pro and refining the technology before launching a more mainstream version. In the future, we could see a lighter, more affordable headset aimed at everyday users rather than just professionals and early adopters.

Competing with Meta and Other Tech Giants

Apple is not the only company investing in AR and VR. Meta (formerly Facebook) has been leading the VR space with its Quest headsets, which are significantly more affordable than the Vision Pro. Google and Microsoft are also working on their own AR solutions. With the M5 chip upgrade, Apple is signalling that it wants to stay ahead in this competitive market.

Could Apple Eventually Replace the iPhone with AR Glasses?

Some tech experts believe Apple’s long-term goal is to replace the iPhone with lightweight AR glasses. While we’re still far from that reality, each upgrade to the Vision Pro brings us one step closer to that future. If Apple can make AR technology as intuitive and essential as the iPhone, it could completely change how we interact with the digital world.

Final Thoughts: Is the M5 Upgrade Enough?

The M5 chip upgrade for the Vision Pro is a big step in the right direction. It promises better performance, improved graphics, and more efficient power consumption. But while these improvements are exciting, they don’t solve all of the Vision Pro’s biggest problems. For Apple to make the Vision Pro a mainstream success, it must address comfort, pricing, battery life, and app support.

Apple is known for refining its products over time. The first iPhone was revolutionary, but it wasn’t until later versions that it became the must-have device we know today. The same could happen with the Vision Pro. The M5 chip is part of that journey, but the real game-changer will be when Apple makes mixed reality accessible for everyone.

As we wait for more details on the Apple Vision Pro next generation, one thing is clear: Apple is not backing down from its vision of the future. Whether or not the M5 upgrade is enough, it’s another step toward making AR and VR a bigger part of our daily lives.