New reports from Bloomberg and The Information suggest that Apple is working on a more budget-friendly version of its high-end Vision Pro headset. The relief is palpable, especially for those of us who cringed at the eye-watering $3,500 price tag of the current generation.

This upcoming model is rumored to come with a significantly reduced price, estimated to fall in the range of $1,500 to $2,500. However, this affordability comes at a cost — the cheaper Vision Pro is expected to miss out on some key features that its pricier sibling boasts.

Fewer Cameras and Sensors

The “budget-friendly” Vision Pro takes a streamlined approach, opting for fewer cameras and sensors when compared to its premium counterpart. The current Apple Vision Pro impresses us with its four downward cameras, two side cameras, and infrared (IR) cameras for precise hand and finger tracking, even in dimly lit conditions. This means you won’t have to awkwardly position your hands in front of the device to make it work.

However, in the more economical version, you can expect a simplified sensor setup. While this reduction in hardware complexity helps cut costs, it might result in a slightly less immersive experience for users. So, if you’re into those intricate hand movements, you might miss the full-blown sensor array.

No M-Series Chip

Rumors suggest that the affordable Vision Pro says goodbye to the Mac-grade M2 chip, which is replaced by the familiar A-series chips found in iPhones. While this transition helps make the headset more affordable, it’s essential to remember that a big chunk of the Vision Pro’s premium price tag is due to its high-resolution displays.

In the budget-friendly model, these displays are expected to undergo a downgrade to strike a balance between cost-efficiency and the stunning visuals we’ve come to expect from Apple’s products. So, while you might not get the most cutting-edge chip, you’ll still enjoy Apple’s renowned display quality.

No ‘Eyesight’ Feature

The cheaper Vision Pro might make a significant change by removing the distinctive ‘Eyesight’ feature. Frankly, for some, that’s not such a bad idea. The Eyesight feature, while impressive, can also look a bit creepy.

In the current Vision Pro, Eyesight keeps your eyes visible when you’re using the headset, especially when someone’s nearby. If you’re immersed in an experience, it shows an animation on the headset’s face to let passers-by know you’re busy. However, in the budget-friendly version, this feature may not be available. Instead, you’ll have a more discreet, personal experience, without the unique social dimension of the original.