Apple has confirmed that the new M5 Vision Pro doubles the refresh rate of its Mac Virtual Display feature to 120Hz, a major leap from the 60Hz limit on the earlier M2 mode.
When Apple unveiled the M5 Vision Pro, it mentioned improved display performance but did not clarify whether the 120Hz refresh rate extended to Mac streaming. After inquiries from tech outlets, Apple officially confirmed the upgrade.
This enhancement means smoother visuals, sharper motion, and a noticeable reduction in visual fatigue. For users who experienced motion sickness with earlier versions, this update could make the feature far more comfortable and practical.
Doubling the Experience: From 60Hz to 120Hz
Previously, the Mac Virtual Display ran at a fixed 60Hz—even when users connected the headset via the Developer Strap or Wi-Fi. The new update changes that completely. The 120Hz refresh rate now applies directly to Mac display streaming, offering smoother cursor movement, improved responsiveness, and a more natural viewing experience.
While the jump from 100Hz to 120Hz might sound modest, the leap from 60Hz to 120Hz is a game-changer. Apple believes the improvement will make the headset suitable for a wider range of users, especially those using it for long work sessions or creative tasks.
Sharper Visuals and More Efficient Rendering
Apple also improved text clarity and image sharpness on the new model. The micro-OLED displays now render 10% more pixels, thanks to refined foveated rendering powered by the M5 chip’s enhanced GPU.
Though the displays themselves remain physically identical to those in the original Vision Pro, Apple’s updated rendering algorithms and higher GPU output produce cleaner visuals and crisper edges.
A Step Forward for Spatial Computing
The 120Hz refresh rate isn’t just about smoother animations—it represents a broader commitment to refining Apple’s spatial computing experience. For professionals using Vision Pro as an external Mac workspace, the improvement could redefine productivity in virtual environments.
Early impressions suggest that Apple’s M5 upgrade has made the Vision Pro’s Mac integration more seamless and visually immersive than ever.
