What’s the story?
Apple upgrades Vision Pro with the M5 chip, improved comfort, and new spatial experiences in visionOS 26.
Why it matters
The update boosts performance, comfort, and content options, advancing Apple’s spatial computing ecosystem.
The bigger picture
Vision Pro remains Apple’s showcase device for cutting-edge spatial tech, even as the company’s focus is reportedly shifting toward everyday smart glasses.
October 17, 2025 – Apple has this week announced an upgraded version of its Vision Pro spatial computing headset. The new model features Apple’s M5 chip, a redesigned Dual Knit Band for improved comfort, and ships with visionOS 26, introducing new spatial apps and immersive content.
The M5 chip, built on third-generation 3-nanometer technology, brings a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU to Vision Pro. According to Apple, these enhancements result in faster experiences throughout the system, including faster app and widget load times, more responsive web browsing, and sharper visuals. The device also renders 10 percent more pixels on its custom micro-OLED displays compared to the previous generation Vision Pro. An upgraded battery supports up to two and a half hours of general use and up to three hours of video playback on a single charge.
The Dual Knit Band, included with the new Vision Pro, is designed for comfort with upper and lower straps made from a single 3D-knitted piece. The band features flexible ribs and a dual-function Fit Dial for fine-tuned adjustments, and is available in multiple sizes. It is also compatible with previous Vision Pro models and can be purchased separately.
What’s New in visionOS 26
visionOS 26 introduces new spatial experiences for Apple Vision Pro, including widgets that integrate into a user’s space and reappear whenever the device is worn. Updates to Persona make communication in apps like FaceTime feel more natural, and spatial scenes use generative AI to add depth to photos for more lifelike memories.
Users can also playback 180-degree, 360-degree, and wide field-of-view videos from popular action cameras, allowing creators to publish in these formats to apps like Safari and Vimeo. Apple added that later this fall, iPadOS 26.1 will introduce the Apple Vision Pro app on iPad, giving users another way to explore new content, queue downloads, find tips, and access information about their Vision Pro.
With over 1 million apps available on Vision Pro, including more than 3,000 built specifically for visionOS, users have access to hundreds of 3D movies and new Apple Immersive content. The company added that additional content will be launching on Apple Immersive in the coming months, including live NBA games and new immersive titles from partners such as the BBC and Red Bull.
Enterprise and Professional Applications on Vision Pro
The upgraded Vision Pro is aimed at both enterprises and pro users, offering applications across design, education, healthcare, creative workflows, and more. Developers can leverage the M5 chip’s performance for advanced spatial and AI-powered applications, while Apple noted that businesses such as CAE and Porsche are utilizing Vision Pro for training and visualization.
“With the breakthrough performance of M5, the latest Apple Vision Pro delivers faster performance, sharper details throughout the system, and even more battery life, setting a new standard for what’s possible in spatial computing,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “Paired with the comfortable Dual Knit Band, innovative features in visionOS 26, and all-new Apple Immersive experiences spanning adventure, documentary, music, and sports, spatial computing is even more capable, entertaining, and magical with the new Vision Pro.”
How Much Does the M5 Vision Pro Cost?
Apple Vision Pro with the M5 chip and Dual Knit Band is available to pre-order now in select markets, with general availability beginning October 22, 2025. Pricing starts at USD $3,499 for the 256GB model. Additional accessories, including the Dual Knit Band and ZEISS Optical Inserts, are available separately.
While recent rumors suggest Apple may be shifting focus from its Vision Pro headset toward more lightweight smart glasses, the device remains the company’s flagship spatial platform. Vision Pro continues to lead technically and this latest announcement reinforces Apple’s position in high-end spatial computing, while future wearables are expected to target a broader audience.
Image credit: Apple
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Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.