Apple’s Next-Gen Vision Pro Spotted in Regulatory Filing
▼ Summary
– A new FCC filing appears to confirm Apple is developing a new Vision Pro headset, as shown by a diagram of a “Head Mounted Device.”
– The filing lists the upcoming headset as model A3416 and indicates it will support Wi-Fi 6, similar to the original Vision Pro.
– Rumors suggest the new Vision Pro could launch as early as this year and may feature a redesigned strap to reduce head and neck pain.
– Code shared by Apple hints that the new headset might be equipped with a more powerful M5 processor.
– Apple is reportedly also working on a lighter, cheaper Vision “Air” for 2027 and Ray-Ban Meta-like smart glasses with voice and gesture control.
A recent regulatory filing with the Federal Communications Commission appears to confirm Apple’s development of a next-generation Vision Pro headset, signaling the company’s continued push into the mixed reality space. This official documentation, first identified by MacRumors, contains a diagram labeled “Head Mounted Device” that bears strong resemblance to the current Vision Pro design. While the filing provides limited technical specifications, it does reveal the device carries model number A3416 and will maintain compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity standards.
Industry observers have been anticipating Apple’s follow-up to its premium spatial computing device for several months. The regulatory submission aligns with previous reporting from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who indicated in July that Apple might introduce an updated Vision Pro model before year’s end. According to circulating rumors, this new iteration could address user comfort concerns through a redesigned head strap system intended to alleviate pressure on the head and neck. Additional evidence from code fragments accidentally released by Apple suggests the device might incorporate the company’s next-generation M5 processor, potentially delivering significant performance improvements over the current M2 chip.
Beyond this anticipated high-end model, Apple’s extended roadmap reportedly includes multiple augmented and virtual reality products. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated the company is developing a more affordable and lightweight version tentatively referred to as the “Vision Air,” with potential availability projected for 2027. Separate from these headset developments, Apple is also rumored to be exploring smart glasses technology that would compete with products like Ray-Ban Meta frames. These glasses would potentially incorporate advanced voice control capabilities and gesture recognition features, representing a different approach to wearable technology compared to the fully immersive Vision Pro experience.
(Source: The Verge)
