Entry-Level Apple Vision Pro to Feature 1500 PPI Display

Reports suggest that Apple is working on using lower-resolution displays to introduce a more affordable version of its Vision Pro spatial computing headset.

Sources claim that Apple has received OLED display samples from Japan Display Inc. (JDI), with a pixel density of approximately 1500 PPI. This is significantly lower than the 3391 PPI display used in the Vision Pro launched earlier this year.

By reducing pixel density, Apple could significantly lower manufacturing costs. In fact, as early as June, there were reports that Apple had been sending requests for information (RFIs) to multiple display manufacturers, including Samsung Display and LG Display. These RFIs were reportedly for OLED displays with a pixel density of around 1700 PPI, indicating that Apple is exploring several options to reduce the cost of its headset.

Notably, the samples from JDI are said to use glass-core substrate (GCS) OLED technology, rather than the OLED-on-Silicon (OLEDoS) displays currently used in the Vision Pro. This shift in display technology could further contribute to cost reductions.

The development of this device is still in its early stages and could take two to three years before it reaches mass production.

Earlier, market research firm IDC reported that Apple's $3500 Vision Pro mixed reality headset, launched in the U.S. in February, had failed to reach 100,000 units sold in its first quarter. Moreover, it faces a projected 75% decline in U.S. sales this quarter. The report also mentioned that a more affordable version of the Vision Pro, priced at around half of the current model, could rekindle consumer interest in 2025.

The Information previously reported that Apple has paused development on the next-generation high-end Vision Pro. Many in the industry speculate that Apple is now focused on launching a lighter and more affordable version of the Vision Pro.