Kuo: Second-Generation Apple AR Headset to Launch in 2024 With Lighter Design, Redesigned Battery System, and More

Apple is already working on its second-generation AR headset, which will feature a lighter design, adopt a new battery system, and a faster processor, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said today in an investor note obtained by MacRumors.

apple mixed reality headset mockup feature purple
Apple is widely expected to launch its first-generation AR-focused device in 2022. That device has been previously reported to feature a processor with Mac-level computing power and will be usable independent from an iPhone, according to Kuo.

Highlighting Apple's long-term goals in AR and the "metaverse," Kuo said today that the development of the second generation of the headset is already underway and destined for launch in 2024. It will feature a lighter design compared to the first headset, as well as a new battery system, according to the analyst.

Apple has begun planning for the second-generation AR/MR headset, and the shipment schedule will likely be in 2H24. Improvements for the second generation include the lighter weight, form factor design, battery system, and processor compared to the first model, which will go to mass production in late 4Q22.

In his note today, Kuo also shared some new details about the first generation of Apple's AR headset, including that it will weigh around 300 to 400g and that it will be able to "seamlessly switch between AR and VR to provide an innovative headset experience."

Apple's first AR headset is expected to be a somewhat niche product aimed largely towards developers with a focus on communication, media consumption, and gaming. Apple's AR headset product line could ultimately replace the iPhone in 10 years, according to Kuo.

The first generation of Apple's AR headset is one of multiple new products Apple is expected to announce in 2022, including five new Macs, three new Apple Watches, updates to the ‌iPhone‌ lineup, and more. Catch up on everything we know about Apple's AR headset using our roundup.

Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro
Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro

Popular Stories

Apple Announces Special Event in New York Feature

Apple Announces Special Event in New York, London, and Shanghai on March 4

Monday February 16, 2026 6:05 am PST by
Apple today announced a "special Apple Experience" in New York, London, and Shanghai, taking place on March 4, 2026 at 9:00am ET. Apple invited select members of the media to the event in three major cities around the world. It is simply described as a "special Apple Experience," and there is no further information about what it may entail. The invitation features a 3D Apple logo design...
iphone 16 apple intelligence

Apple Aiming to Release 'Breakthrough' New iPhone Accessory

Wednesday February 18, 2026 12:43 pm PST by
Apple is looking for a "breakthrough" with its push into wearable AI devices, including an "AirTag-sized pendant," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In a report this week, he said the pendant is reminiscent of the failed Humane AI Pin, but it would be an iPhone accessory rather than a standalone product. The pendant would feature an "always-on" camera and a microphone for Siri voice...
CarPlay Liquid Glass Dark

iOS 26.4's New CarPlay Video Feature Shown in Action

Wednesday February 18, 2026 9:29 am PST by
Back at WWDC 2025, Apple revealed that it was planning to allow CarPlay users to watch video via AirPlay in their vehicles while they are not driving, and the first beta of iOS 26.4 suggests the feature may be nearing availability. There are several new references to CarPlay video streaming functionality within the iOS 26.4 beta's source code. The feature is not yet visible to users, but...
iphone 17 pro green

iPhone 17 Pro Max Curiously Becomes Most Traded-In Smartphone

Wednesday February 18, 2026 9:13 am PST by
New trade-in data indicates that Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max has rapidly become the single most traded-in smartphone. According to a new report from SellCell, Apple's latest flagship iPhone has quickly risen to the top of the independent trade-in market, accounting for 11.5% of all devices appearing in the top-20 trade-in rankings just months after release. The analysis is based on SellCell...
Multicolored Low Cost A18 Pro MacBook Feature

Low-Cost MacBook Expected on March 4 in These Colors

Wednesday February 18, 2026 5:42 am PST by
Apple will announce its rumored low-cost MacBook at its event on March 4, with the device coming in a selection of bold color options, according to a known leaker. Earlier this week, Apple announced a "special Apple Experience" for the media in New York, London, and Shanghai, taking place on March 4, 2026 at 9:00am ET. Posting on Weibo, the leaker known as "Instant Digital" said that the...

Top Rated Comments

Schizoid Avatar
55 months ago
I for one am really excited about the second-gen goggles, I really like wearing the ones that aren’t out yet, I use them for pretending I’m in space and walking into lampposts.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TheYayAreaLiving ?️ Avatar
55 months ago
The first generation is not even out yet... We have no idea if the first generation is even launching next year.

I thought it was reported it is set to launch next year?

Mr. Kuo: This might make more sense since Tim Cook may be retiring in the year 2024?
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
UltimateSyn Avatar
55 months ago
LOL! Trust me; the third generation is the one to wait for.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
55 months ago
In other news ... "Hans Zimmer praises Apple’s Spatial Audio technology ('https://9to5mac.com/2021/12/07/hans-zimmer-praises-apples-spatial-audio-technology-says-jony-ive-gave-him-a-pair-of-headphones-he-worked-on/')"
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Mr. Dee Avatar
55 months ago
I can tell you somebody or a group of leakers within Apple or the supply chain have been fed hot air and they are now likely fired. Apple is on its A game here.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
55 months ago

Looks bulky and heavy this first gen version. Yeah probably best to wait for the 2nd gen.
Not sure I'd put too much stock in that rendering. It's someone's opinion/guess. That would never fly in the market.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)