Apple’s Vision Pro M5 Just Made Reality Obsolete
Apple just leveled up its mixed-reality game with the newest Vision Pro M5, bringing serious performance gains, a smarter design, and better comfort. While it looks similar on the outside, almost everything inside has been re-engineered for faster AI processing, smoother visuals, and a noticeably better fit. Here’s what’s new and why it matters.
⚙️ Powered by the M5 Chip
At the heart of the upgrade is Apple’s new M5 chip, the same processor now driving the latest iPad Pro and MacBook Pro. Built on a cutting-edge 3-nanometer process, this chip delivers a huge leap in both speed and efficiency.
Apple claims it provides up to 3.5x faster AI performance compared to the M2-powered original Vision Pro. That means smoother spatial experiences, faster app launches, and improved real-time hand and eye tracking.
🧠 AI and Spatial Computing Upgrades
With the M5’s 16-core Neural Engine, the Vision Pro can handle more complex on-device AI tasks without breaking a sweat. In visionOS 26, that translates into new features like smarter Personas (your digital face/avatar), improved 3D pinning for apps, and better multitasking inside mixed-reality environments.
Apple also introduced new Immersive Experiences — think upgraded spatial videos, interactive 3D environments, and enhanced compatibility with creative and productivity tools built specifically for the headset.
👓 Sharper, Smoother Visuals
The M5’s graphical improvements bring more detail and fluidity to what you see. The dual micro-OLED displays now push about 10% more pixels, and the refresh rate jumps to 120 Hz — cutting down motion blur and creating a more natural transition between virtual and real worlds.
For gamers, designers, and anyone using the headset for extended periods, this means cleaner visuals and less eye fatigue.
🪶 The New Dual Knit Band
One of the most noticeable changes is the new Dual Knit Band. It’s Apple’s answer to the biggest Vision Pro complaint: comfort.
This redesigned strap system uses two bands that distribute weight more evenly around your head. It includes a dual-function Fit Dial for fine-tuning tightness and internal balancing weights that reduce facial pressure.
Even better — it’s backward compatible with the original Vision Pro, so early adopters can upgrade without replacing the entire headset.
🔋 Better Battery and Efficiency
The M5 chip’s improved efficiency translates to longer sessions. Battery life now stretches to about 2.5 hours of general use or 3 hours of video playback, roughly 30 minutes more than before.
While Apple still expects users to plug in for longer creative or entertainment sessions, the boost gives a little extra flexibility for mobile use.
💾 Storage, Pricing, and Availability
The Vision Pro M5 keeps the same tiered storage lineup — 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB — starting at $3,499 USD / £3,199 GBP.
Pre-orders are open now, with units shipping October 22, 2025, worldwide through Apple’s official store.
🧭 The Big Picture
This refresh isn’t a total redesign — it’s Apple tightening up every weak spot from the first generation. The comfort, visuals, and performance upgrades make it feel like the Vision Pro Apple wanted to release from the start.
More importantly, this update shows where the company is heading: building a long-term foundation for AI-driven spatial computing and potentially paving the way for lighter, glasses-style AR devices in the near future.
In short:
The Vision Pro M5 isn’t just faster — it’s smarter, smoother, and finally comfortable enough for everyday use. It’s still premium, but now it feels a lot closer to the future Apple’s been promising since day one.
