Apple Prioritizes Smart Glasses Over a Lighter Vision Pro
Apple has decided to pull staff from development of a lighter Vision Pro headset in order to accelerate work on its upcoming smart glasses, according to Bloomberg. The company is reportedly working on at least two distinct glasses models. The first model lacks a built‑in display and could be unveiled as early as next year, with a commercial launch projected for 2027. The second model includes a display that was originally slated for a 2028 release, but Apple now aims to move its development timeline forward.
Both glasses are expected to incorporate speakers and cameras, be offered in multiple styles, and rely heavily on voice interaction and artificial‑intelligence capabilities. Bloomberg also notes that Apple is developing a custom chip specifically for its smart‑glass lineup, echoing earlier reports about a dedicated silicon effort.
Apple’s shift comes as the company scales back production of the original Vision Pro headset. Regulatory filings hint at a modest refresh of the Vision Pro that could launch as early as the end of the current year, but the lighter version that had been rumored for a 2027 debut is being deprioritized in favor of the glasses effort.
In contrast, competitor Meta has recently expanded its own smart‑glass portfolio, introducing a second‑generation Ray‑Ban Meta glasses with improved battery life, a new Oakley‑branded model aimed at athletes, and the Ray‑Ban Display glasses, which feature a display in the right lens. Analysts suggest that Apple’s delayed entry will place it behind Meta in the emerging smart‑glass market.
Overall, Apple’s strategic pivot reflects a desire to catch up with rivals by focusing on wearable devices that blend audio, visual, and AI functionalities, even as it recalibrates its Vision Pro roadmap.
This article was written with the assistance of AI.
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