In a strategic move just days before Samsung’s eagerly awaited Galaxy XR headset launch, Apple has introduced an upgraded Vision Pro, now equipped with the new M5 chip and a redesigned Dual Knit Band for improved comfort. This update reinforces Apple’s position in the spatial computing arena while keeping the price steady at $3,499 (approximately ₹2.9 lakh). The Vision Pro is available for pre-orders in the US and UK in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB options, with worldwide availability set to begin on October 22, 2025. By maintaining its premium pricing, Apple demonstrates confidence in its technology, granting loyal customers a performance enhancement without a price increase.
The M5 chip, Apple’s latest and most powerful silicon, has already gained attention in the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models and now elevates the Vision Pro’s capabilities. Apple claims that the M5 chip enables faster processing, smoother visuals, and improved energy efficiency, which are essential for the headset’s intensive spatial computing tasks. The M5-powered Vision Pro can render 10% more pixels on its advanced micro-OLED displays compared to the M2 model, resulting in sharper visuals, more intricate environments, and clearer text, enhancing experiences from immersive 3D design to virtual cinema. Additionally, the upgrade supports refresh rates of up to 120Hz, reducing motion blur and producing a smoother visual experience, particularly beneficial when using the Mac Virtual Display feature.
Users managing several floating windows or engaged in virtual environments will experience enhanced multitasking and faster responsiveness. Battery life has also seen significant improvement, addressing a key concern for first-generation users. Thanks to the M5’s efficiency, the Vision Pro now offers up to 2.5 hours of regular use and up to 3 hours for video playback, a welcome enhancement for users engaged in lengthy work sessions or movie watching without constant recharging interruptions. The M5’s enhanced neural processing capabilities further mitigate performance slowdowns experienced in the first generation, allowing the Vision Pro to smoothly operate multiple high-resolution apps and the latest visionOS 26 features, such as Apple’s Immersive Environments.
Beyond performance improvements, Apple has also enhanced the headset’s ergonomics with the Dual Knit Band, featuring a 3D-knitted design that offers better breathability, flexibility, and cushioning. The dual-rib construction distributes weight more evenly, addressing issues related to the original strap’s stiffness. This band includes a dual-function Fit Dial for accurate adjustments and is available in small, medium, and large sizes. It comes standard with the new Vision Pro but will also be sold separately for $99 (around ₹8,200), and is compatible with the first-generation headset as well. While Apple’s latest Vision Pro update does not constitute a complete redesign, the addition of the M5 chip and the refined design represent a significant advancement.
With Samsung preparing for the Galaxy XR launch, Apple’s timing appears intentional—a strategic effort to reinforce its leadership in spatial computing and remind the tech industry of its innovation prowess.