Apple is accelerating its push into spatial computing with the apple vision pro and is preparing a revision of the Apple Vision Pro that points to significant changes on the inside rather than the outside. Various clues in internal code suggest the integration of a M5 chip, with a focus on performance, efficiency and lower latency, without a radical redesign of the headset.
The calendar used by the sources places the announcement in the short term., with commercial availability most likely in 2026. The strategy involves iterating the current model, expand markets (including Spain) and prepare a deeper and more affordable renovation by 2027, when the visor would be noticeably lighter.
What is known about the next model
The jump to the M5 compared to the current M2 means more graphics power, better AI on the device and greater thermal efficiency.This advancement would allow for more complex experiences to be run and improve the overall fluidity of the system in demanding scenarios, according to the planned news.
A priority would be to reduce latency and small blurs when moving the head., two factors that contribute to fatigue or dizziness in certain users. It is also expected a more comfortable strap for long sessions, alleviating one of the recurring criticisms of the original model. These improvements are in line with the software and accessory developments that accompany the viewfinder.
The design will be continuous, with possible specific improvements in autonomy. thanks to the chip's increased efficiency. No format change is planned, but rather adjustments that polish the experience of everyday life.
The M5's clue comes from a quickly withdrawn software tool, which included unannounced hardware identifiers. Findings like those from MacRumors (Aaron Perris) have several sources converging in the same direction, and that M5 runway is one of the most cited.
Roadmap and availability
Apple is reportedly preparing a mid-range update before the major redesign in 2027., a year in which the visor would be lighter (there is talk of weight reductions of around 40%) and more accessible to the general public.
- Announcement in the short term and expected to reach the market in 2026.
- International expantion with new countries on the launch list.
- Major renovation in 2027 with lighter weight and more affordable objectives.
No drastic changes are expected in hardware outside of the chip and ergonomics., keeping the focus on tangible usability improvements without remaking the device from scratch; many of those tangible improvements have already been commented on by testers.
visionOS and the challenge of immersive content
visionOS 26 aims to refine the experience with features like interactive widgets anchored to the environment and a more robust persistent desktop, two improvements designed for productivity and everyday use; in detail, visionOS 26 introduces important changes.
The catalogue of immersive pieces remains limited (barely thirty), something that Apple would be rationing as it does not yet have a large installed base. The company prioritizes quality and launch opportunity; the production of immersive videos requires specific resources.
Bloomberg reports that Apple has postponed new immersive videos until the next version of the headset., a move that fits with the idea of accompanying the hardware jump with own impactful content.
Third-party production is already underway with specialized software and industry agreements (such as those with Blackmagic), and on the table are live events such as concerts and sports for when adoption is greater. There are also signs of investment and business movement, such as the acquisition of companies to boost Vision Pro (strategic operations).
A new control mode: touch frame and seal
A recent patent describes tactile zones on the frame and light seal (padding) of the visor, under the concept of Touch Sensitive Input Surface. The idea could remove the Digital Crown and top button in future generations.
The system would support swipe, tap, and pressure gestures., with dedicated sensors and even internal LED indicators to guide your hand. All without taking your eyes off the immersive scene.
Fewer moving parts means less wear and tear and more customization, although it also poses challenges: avoiding accidental touches and making it easier to locate active zones without physical reference.
Games and experiences: the next big push
PSVR2 controller support is now on the table and underlines the headset's potential for immersive gaming experiences. A leap to M5 could be the catalyst so that larger native titles can be obtained; controller compatibility it's key.
Today there are unofficial solutions like ALVR to connect with VR PC games., but there's no native route from the Apple ecosystem. There's a clear opportunity there if the software keeps up with the new hardware.
The success of the upcoming Vision Pro will depend as much on the catalog and content as on the chip.The proposal must balance performance, real utility, and price to convince a wider audience.
Everything indicates that Apple will consolidate the Vision Pro with more power, better controls and a push to content., while reserving the big leap in design and weight for 2027. If they manage to reduce latency, enrich visionOS, and expand availability, spatial computing will take an important step towards the general public.
