Insider says Apple is working on a version of visionOS for its future smartphones

By: Nastya Bobkova | 28.01.2025, 04:07
Apple develops visionOS: a new operating system for smartphones Apple may release a version of visionOS for its smartphones. Source: MacRumors

Apple is probably actively working on a new version of its visionOS operating system that will be compatible with the company's future smartphones.

Here's What We Know

This could be part of Apple's strategy to expand its augmented reality (AR) product line. The company aims to release a product that is more convenient than the Apple Vision Pro virtual reality headset.

According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Herman, Vision Pro has not yet met the company's expectations. Many users consider it too heavy for long-term use, expensive (the price is $3500), and prone to overheating. Interest in the device declined after the launch, and sales were low.

Apple Vision Pro. Illustration: Apple
Apple Vision Pro. Illustration: Apple

In his new issue of Power On, Herman reports that Apple's Vision Products group is focused on developing smart glasses that could compete with the Meta and Ray-Ban collaboration. According to the sources, this will not be achieved before three years, as research is still ongoing.

Meta Ray-Ban. Illustration: Ray-Ban
Meta Ray-Ban. Illustration: Ray-Ban

The company is already conducting user research to determine which features and interfaces will be most attractive to consumers. Apple is also working on a version of visionOS that will run on smartphones, codenamed "Atlas". The development takes place in a secret facility in Santa Clara, California, where future screens are tested.

Nevertheless, Apple is not abandoning its plans to update Vision Pro and release a more affordable version of the device, which will cost about $1600, similar to a high-end iPhone. The updated model is expected to appear at the end of 2024.

In addition, Apple is working with Sony to add support for PlayStation VR2 controllers for the Vision Pro.

Source: Bloomberg, MacRumors