In a new rumor report this morning we learn about a range of future device upgrades starting with a lower-end Vision Pro model that could be priced in the $1,500 to $2,500 range that could better compete with Meta and future competitors.

To make the lower-end model profitable, Apple is likely to bring down costs by using lower-resolution displays and an iPhone processor rather than a Mac chip. In addition, Apple is also likely to remove the EyeSight feature — the external display that shows a user’s eyes — and include fewer external cameras and sensors.

For the second generation of Vision Pro, Apple is aiming to reduce the overall size of the device while making it lighter in process. And, instead of using "Zeiss" lenses, the company is working on integrating prescription lenses directly into the device which will simplify the process.

On Macs and iPads

In respect to Macs and iPads, Bloomberg reports that A new entry-level iPad, iPad Air and iPad mini are all in development with faster chips, but I don’t believe updates of any significance are imminent which is in stark contradiction to a new 9to5Mac rumor report posted this morning titled "Apple to announce new iPad models this week, featuring upgraded chips," posted this morning.

Bloomberg's report further notes that the new iPad Pro models with revamped designs, OLED displays, faster chips and redesigned Magic Keyboards won’t go on sale until next year.

The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with M3 Pro and M3 Max chips have reached the DVT stage — short for design validation test. That means the machines are nearing mass production. The progress suggests a consumer release between early and spring 2024, matching the previous year’s timing.

Those waiting for a new MacBook Air will likely need to hold on a bit longer. I’m told that the 13-inch and 15-inch M3 models have just reached the EVT stage, or engineering verification test, which would put them on schedule for between spring and summer of next year at the earliest.

New Apple Store Retail Device to Update iPhones Prior to Sale

Interestingly, the report notes that Apple is planning a new system for its retail stores that will update the software on iPhones prior to sale. The company has developed a proprietary pad-like device that the store can place boxes of iPhones on top of. That system can then wirelessly turn on the iPhone, update its software and then power it back down — all without the phone’s packaging ever being opened. The company aims to begin rolling this out to its stores before the end of the year. 

An Executive Shuffle 

Lastly, the first half of Mark Gurman's newsletter this morning details an executive shuffle at Apple. For details on that, read the Bloomberg report here.