Apple is reportedly accelerating its development of smart glasses to compete with similar products from Meta while pausing plans for a lighter version of its Vision Pro headset. According to Bloomberg, Apple is focusing on two distinct models: one without a display, which may be unveiled next year and launched in 2027, and another with a display that was initially slated for 2028 but is now under expedited development.
These upcoming smart glasses are expected to feature components such as speakers, cameras, and multiple design styles, similar to Meta’s offerings produced in collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley. Notably, Apple’s devices will incorporate heavy reliance on voice interaction and artificial intelligence. The version with a display may compete more directly with the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, which already include a display in one lens. Additionally, Apple is working on a specialized chip tailored for its smart glasses.
In regard to the Vision Pro headset, which was anticipated to launch in 2027, Apple has reallocated staff from this project to aid in the development of the smart glasses. Reports indicate that Apple has scaled back production for the original Vision Pro, though recent regulatory filings suggest a new version is being developed. This updated version, described by Bloomberg as a “modest refresh,” could potentially be released as soon as the end of this year.
As Apple continues to refine its product plans, the company’s pivot toward smart glasses raises questions about its long-term strategy in the augmented reality space and how these new devices may position the company against competitors like Meta.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/790285/apple-smart-glasses-vision-pro