Vision Pro Developer Strap: Apple launches new version

Apple’s Vision Pro M5 not only gets a new, more comfortable headband as an accessory: The so-called Developer Strap, which retrofits a USB-C port to the headset, is also about to be updated. While the “Dual Band made of knitted fabric” is standard in the packaging of the “spatial computer”, which is available from 3700 euros, you still have to buy the replacement part, also known as Dev Strap for short, for a fee. On the other hand, the new version can do a little more than its predecessor.

Up to 20 Gbps throughput

Like Apple’s Developer Website (after logging in with a developer account), the “2nd generation” of the hardware can now be ordered for 329 euros – that’s the previous price. Apple has not lowered it, unlike the Vision Pro M5 itself, where there had been adjustments due to the change in the exchange rate. (In the USA, 299 US dollars plus sales tax are charged as usual.)

The new Dev Strap accelerates significantly more than its predecessor: Instead of only enabling a “USB-C data connection”, the throughput of which Apple had not yet officially specified, but probably corresponded to a maximum of USB 3.0 (5 Gbps), “up to 20 Gbps” are now said to be possible. In practice, this should enable more stable and faster connections, especially for file transfers. “The Developer Strap is an optional accessory that establishes a USB-C connection between Apple Vision Pro and Mac and accelerates the development of graphics-intensive apps and games,” Apple describes the hardware. The accessory is still necessary if you want to reset the Vision Pro (via Mac) – for example, if something goes wrong when installing a beta.

Compatible with First Vision Pro

The Developer Strap 2G still retains the integrated “Dual Driver Audio Pods”, i.e. speakers – after all, the band replaces the previously existing speaker. Compatibility with the Mac remains. Useful: The band is compatible with both the Vision Pro M5 and the first-generation predecessor (with M2). This is reminiscent of the new headband, which you can also buy for the old headset for 115 euros.

If you are interested in the Dev Strap, you will need, as mentioned a developer account at Apple – this can be created free of charge and is then linked to the Apple account. A special tool is included with the Developer Strap – it corresponds to a SIM tool and makes it possible to detach the existing speaker (“Right Audio Strap”) so that the Dev Strap can be attached.