Apple Vision Air: a low-cost screen for a more affordable version?

The launch of the Apple Vision Pro generated a lot of enthusiasm, but also questions about its high price. Rumors have circulated about a potential entry-level version, but Ming-Chi Kuo claimed in September 2023 thatthis project would have been abandoneddue to excessive manufacturing costs.

In January 2024, a change in the code of iOS 17.3 beta 2, however, taught us that Apple is preparing the arrival of awider rangemixed reality headsets. The “Apple Vision Pro” category has indeed beenrenamed simply “Apple Vision”on the official website of the Apple firm.

A cheaper OLED screen to reduce costs

According to a new report from The Elec, Apple would turn to the company Japan Display Inc (JDI) to supply OLED screensless expensive. JDI reportedly recently delivered a glass-substrate OLED panel to Apple, intended for a mixed reality headset similar to the Vision Pro.

This technology differs from that currently used on the current version of the helmet. The latter is based on a silicon substrate allowingpixel densitya much higher 3,391 ppi (pixels per inch).JDI's panel would offer a density of approximately 1,500 ppi,which remains entirely respectable. For comparison, the Meta Quest 3 offers 1218 ppi.

At the same time, Apple has reportedly asked Samsung Display to develop an OLED panel with a resolution of 1,700 ppi. These different avenues show that Apple is actively exploring solutions toreduce costsproduction of its future helmets.

A strategic turnaround for Apple?

If these rumors are confirmed, it would mark achange of direction for Apple.Until now, the firm seemed to favor quality and innovation, even if it meant offering more expensive products. Some experts further assert thatThe Vision Pro is over engineered.

Faced with market realities, however, as well as the need to make its technology accessible to as many people as possible, Apple seems ready to make concessions. A less defined, but cheaper, screen could be the key to offering an Apple Vision at a more affordable price. As a reminder, the Apple Vision Pro is sold from 3,999 euros.