Apple Vision Pro updated with M5 chip, new band and visionOS 26

Apple has announced an upgraded version of its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, now powered by the M5 chip and featuring a redesigned Dual Knit Band for improved comfort. The update also brings visionOS 26, which introduces new spatial apps, Apple Intelligence features, and enhanced rendering performance.

The new M5 chip replaces the previous M2 processor, promising faster overall performance, smoother rendering, and more efficient AI processing. Apple claims the M5 offers up to 2x faster AI-driven tasks and 50% quicker neural processing for apps that use on-device machine learning.

In gaming, the new 10-core GPU supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading, enabling more realistic lighting and reflections. The headset’s micro-OLED displays now render 10% more pixels than before and can reach up to 120Hz refresh rate, reducing motion blur and improving clarity when switching between virtual and real-world views.

Battery life has also been improved slightly, with up to 2.5 hours of general use or 3 hours of video playback on a single charge.

The new Dual Knit Band replaces the original single strap with a two-piece 3D-knit design, offering better weight distribution and breathability. The lower strap includes tungsten inserts for balance, while the dual-function Fit Dial lets users fine-tune the fit. It’s available in small, medium, and large sizes and can also be purchased separately for USD 99 (~RM419) in the US, compatible with the first-generation Vision Pro.

The new visionOS 26 adds widgets that can be pinned in 3D space, enhanced Personas for FaceTime, and new Spatial Scenes powered by AI to transform 2D photos into 3D environments. Users can also now view 180° and 360° videos from supported action cameras, including GoPro and Insta360.

Apple has also expanded Apple Intelligence features, adding multilingual support and integration with apps like Messages and Notes.

There are now over 1 million apps compatible with Vision Pro, including over 3,000 apps built specifically for visionOS. Apple is also pushing its Apple Immersive lineup of 3D and 180° films, with new titles coming from BBC, Red Bull, and HYBE, and live NBA games expected later this year.

Gaming support has expanded too as the Vision Pro now supports the PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, offering haptic feedback and six-degrees-of-freedom tracking.

In the US, the Apple Vision Pro (M5) starts at USD 3,499 (~RM14,792), available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities. Pre-orders are open in select markets including the U.S., UK, Japan, France, Germany, and Hong Kong, with availability starting 22 October 2025. Malaysia has not been listed among launch regions.