Apple Vision Pro Gets M5 Chip and Comfort Upgrade

• Apple’s updated Vision Pro now includes the new M5 chip, Dual Knit Band, and visionOS 26, starting at $3,499 and available October 22.
• The upgrade enhances battery life, AI speed, spatial app performance, and supports immersive content, including Apple Immersive and 3D movies.

Apple has introduced the next generation of Vision Pro, powered by the new M5 chip and a redesigned Dual Knit Band built for comfort. Running visionOS 26, the updated headset unlocks over 3,000 spatial apps, hundreds of 3D movies, and new Apple Immersive content. Pre-orders are live now, with global availability beginning October 22, starting at $3,499.

The M5 chip boosts performance across the system with a 10-core CPU and GPU supporting hardware-accelerated ray tracing. It renders 10% more pixels on micro-OLED displays, enables refresh rates up to 120Hz, and supports AI tasks up to 50 percent faster. M5 is designed to work with the R1 chip, which streams new images to the displays within 12 milliseconds by processing input from 12 cameras, five sensors, and six microphones. Developers benefit from faster load times, improved graphics, and support for Apple’s Foundation Models in spatial apps. Apple highlighted JigSpace, which uses the on-device model at the core of Apple Intelligence to make complex data and 3D content easier to understand.

To increase comfort, Apple has introduced the Dual Knit Band, a 3D-knitted, dual-rib design with embedded tungsten inserts for stability and weight distribution. It comes in three sizes and supports fine-tuned adjustments via a dual-function Fit Dial. This band is also compatible with earlier Vision Pro models and available as a standalone accessory.

Apple continues its environmental focus with Vision Pro, with 100% recycled aluminum in the frame and battery casing, recycled rare earths in all magnets, and recycled cobalt in the battery. The packaging is fully fiber-based and recyclable, and the product is designed to meet Apple’s energy efficiency and longevity standards.

🌀 Tom’s Take:

This is a solid, iterative update for Vision Pro that should encourage longer sessions and inspire new content, but it’s not yet the big move Apple may need to bring more people into the headset.

Source: Apple