Over the past few months, we’ve heard reports that Apple is working on a second-generation AR/VR headset, although few details have been shared about the device. MacRumors has now received new information about the project, giving us an insight into the design and hardware of the Vision Pro successor.
The second-generation Apple Vision Pro headset, known internally under the codename Project Alaska and device ID N109, bears a striking resemblance to the first-generation Vision Pro announced at WWDC 2023. Although the device retains the curved aesthetic and button placement of the first Vision Pro, speaker placement should be different.
Early designs for the second-generation Apple headset do not include the rounded areas that house the first-generation model’s speakers. Instead, the headset features flat, uniform temples along their entire length. Project Alaska documentation contains references to a non-descript audio accessory, possibly an external speaker. At one point in development, there were two different design configurations for the top vents – one being the same as the vents on the first generation Apple Vision Pro, and the second having two groups of tiny top-type holes -speaker.
Another key difference is the back straps. The second generation headset features straps that are simpler in design and appearance, somewhat reminiscent of the flat straps commonly found on laptop bags or backpacks. Previous rumors suggested that Apple’s next headset could be cheaper than the Vision Pro, and the design of the second-generation headset’s back straps lends credence to that theory. More streamlined wristbands would likely be easier to mass produce, perhaps resulting in a lower overall price for end consumers.
Besides the possibility of an audio accessory, information from our sources suggests that Apple is considering an external battery, similar to the battery used for the first generation Apple Vision Pro.
In terms of hardware, the second-generation Vision Pro will continue to include a similar array of cameras and sensors as the first headset. To be more specific, the device will feature a compass, ambient light sensor, magnetometer, and gyroscope, all of which are already present in the iPhone. For connectivity, the second-generation Apple headset will support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, and Ultra Low Latency Audio (ULLA).
Key hardware components of the second generation Apple headset:
- 2 micro-OLED screens
- 1 TrueDepth camera
- 4 computer vision (CV) cameras
- 2 RGB cameras
- 2 low-light infrared illuminators
- Semi-automatic interpupillary distance (IPD) adjustment
- Compass, ambient light sensor, magnetometer, accelerometer, gyrocope
Current information indicates that the second-generation Apple headset is expected to pass the product validation testing (PVT) phase in 2025, which suggests a release date of late 2025 or early 2026. The information we shared comes from a reliable source who has provided us with details on Apple’s plans in the past, but it should be noted that this is pre-production information and Apple’s plans could change before the start of final mass production of the second generation headset.
For more information on the current Apple Vision Pro, check out our dedicated Vision Pro roundup.