The lightweight Apple Vision headset isn't quite here yet, but in the meantime, Apple Vision Pro has been updated with M5 to enable more powerful software and gaming on the platform.
When Apple first showed off Apple Vision Pro in June 2023, it was heralded as an interesting, if heavy, mixed reality experience. It debuted in February 2024 with the M2 processor, and the hardware was left alone in the time since, until now.
Alongside the launch of its new M5 editions of the 14-inch MacBook Pro and the iPad Pro, Apple has now released a spec-bump update to the Apple Vision Pro. It too gets the new M5 processor for improved software and experiences, plus a more comfortable Dual Knit Band.
"With the breakthrough performance of M5, the latest Apple Vision Pro delivers faster performance, sharper details throughout the system, and even more battery life," said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, "setting a new standard for what's possible in spatial computing,"
"Paired with the comfortable Dual Knit Band, innovative features in visionOS 26, and all-new Apple Immersive experiences spanning adventure, documentary, music, and sports," continued Borchers, "spatial computing is even more capable, entertaining, and magical with the new Vision Pro."
Dual Knit Band
The new Dual Knit Band, previously rumored, is claimed to be make the headset more comfortable to wear than the original Solo Knit Band.
It's an entirely new design from Apple — although initially it appeared to be similar to a strap that was very briefly included in Apple's unveiling of the Apple Vision Pro at WWDC 2023.
Apple briefly showed a dual-style band during the original launch of the Apple Vision Pro — image credit: Apple
That announcement was the final a 45-minute section of the WWDC presentation, and the strap with a top section appeared in only a single shot. But it was distinctive enough to have people asking Apple what happened to it.
So Apple did consider a strap that went over the head as well as behind it. But this new Dual Knit Band is a new design.
Apple's Vision platform
Apple Vision Pro introduced both the new spatial computing platform and the operating system that would run it — visionOS. It's an entirely new direction for Apple, and will ultimately result in smart AR glasses we've dubbed Apple Glass.
Apple Vision Pro isn't a traditional VR headset, nor is it AR. The user puts on a headset and views information presented on two small displays, which is feeding a 3D passthrough of the environment around them.
There's a way to go into an immersive view, which is more traditionally VR, and find yourself in a new space — like Mt. Hood or Yosemite. Users can easily toggle between the modes, and apps can offer different environments.
Apple Vision Pro is primarily navigated through looking and tapping. There's also the option of performing actions or launching apps via Siri.
Apple Vision Pro introduced spatial computing
While the apps and games introduced for the platform so far haven't taxed the M2, the visionOS 26 update is pushing the envelope. The new model introduced will enable users to take full advantage of things like spatial widgets and VR gaming without constraints.
The M5 update had been expected, but was also previously rumored that it would come with a new R2 chip. The R-series processors are the headset's chip for handling input from its 12 cameras, five sensors, and six microphones.
Apple has confirmed, however, that the new Apple Vision Pro is continuing to use the R1 processor.
New Apple Vision Pro release date
Apple says that customers can book a demonstration of the new M5 Apple Vision Pro immediately. Pre-orders have also started, with the base model again costing $3,499.
The new Apple Vision Pro will be available from October 22, 2025, in stores.
