Apple has unveiled the latest generation of its Vision Pro – now with the powerful M5 chip and a redesigned dual band made from knitted fabric for greater comfort. This not only gives the mixed reality headset a significant performance boost, but also an ergonomic upgrade. In addition, visionOS 26 brings new functions, immersive content and enhanced Apple Intelligence features that combine AI and spatial computing more closely than ever before.
- M5 chip makes AI workflows up to twice as fast
- New dual band made of knitted fabric offers improved wearing comfort
- visionOS 26 integrates widgets, 360° videos and new personas
- Up to 3 hours of video playback and faster display frame rates up to 120 Hz
M5 chip: more power for real and virtual experiences
The new M5 chip takes the Vision Pro experience to a whole new level. Thanks to its 10-core CPU, hardware ray tracing and modern mesh shading architecture, it offers significantly increased graphics and system performance. Spatial environments, 3D objects or large amounts of data are displayed faster and more realistically.
The micro OLED display now renders around 10 percent more pixels – texts appear clearer, colors more vivid, reflections more realistic. At the same time, the refresh rate of up to 120 Hz increases the motion display and reduces blurring, for example when viewing real environments or when using the virtual Mac display.
The improved 16-core Neural Engine accelerates AI applications such as personas, spatial photo conversions or complex analyses. With the Foundation Models Framework, Apple enables developers to integrate on-device models directly into immersive experiences – a decisive advance for apps such as JigSpace, which visualize technical data interactively in 3D space. In combination with the R1 chip, which processes sensor data in real time, the result is an exceptionally responsive system with an image latency of just 12 milliseconds.
More comfort: the new dual band made of knitted fabric
In addition to the hardware, comfort is one of the biggest developments. The new dual band made of knitted fabric combines breathable, padded rib structures with elastic tungsten inserts to distribute weight and pressure optimally. The result is an even balance and a comfortably stable fit – even during longer sessions.
Thanks to the dual adjustment wheel, the band can be precisely adjusted to the individual head size. Apple offers the bands in sizes S, M and L, which can be measured and ordered via the Apple Store app. The band is also compatible with older Vision Pro models and is available separately.
The convenience advantage is particularly relevant, as the headset now has a battery life of up to 2.5 hours of general use or 3 hours of video playback, which means it can be used for much longer. For stationary use, the battery can be seamlessly connected to a power source.
visionOS 26: Spatial computing with AI support
With visionOS 26, Apple is bringing the most comprehensive update for its spatial operating system to date. Users can now integrate widgets directly into their room to keep the time, weather, music or notifications in their field of vision. The new, naturally animated personas noticeably improve video conferences in FaceTime or other apps.
Spatial photos and videos, converted into 3D depth with the help of generative AI, make memories appear lifelike. visionOS 26 also extends support for 180-, 360-degree and wide-angle videos from Canon, Insta360 and GoPro cameras. With Apple Immersive Video, sporting events such as NBA games, documentaries and concerts will be available in stunning quality – including new content from Red Bull, BBC and HYBE.
For gamers, the Vision Pro now offers support for the PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller, which enables precise motion detection and immersive feedback. Games such as Glassbreakers: Champions of Moss or Control already make full use of the M5’s capabilities.
Spatial productivity and professional workflows
Vision Pro is increasingly becoming a tool for productive applications. Artists and designers can work precisely in apps such as Crayon or Sketch Pro with the new Logitech Muse drawing pen, while developers can visualize complex 3D models or simulations in real time. Companies such as CAE and Porsche are already using the headset for training, design reviews and immersive product configurations.
For photographers and filmmakers, the virtual Mac display enables color-accurate image editing in programs such as Pixelmator or Final Cut Pro – regardless of ambient light and location.
Sustainability and price
Apple also manufactures the new Vision Pro completely CO₂-neutral – with 100% recycled aluminum, recycled rare earth metals in the magnets and recycled cobalt in the battery. The packaging is made exclusively from fiber-based, easily recyclable materials, and the device meets the highest energy and safety standards.
The Apple Vision Pro with M5 chip and dual band made of knitted fabric is available from 3,699 euros. Models with 256 GB, 512 GB and 1 TB memory are available. Pre-orders are available now, with deliveries starting on October 22 in Germany and other markets worldwide.
