Apple reportedly scraps Vision Pro headset follow-up in favor of smart glasses
A refreshed Apple Vision Pro headset leaked by the FCC today (October 1) is expected to launch in the coming weeks, and at some point between now and 2027, Apple was expected to follow up that device with the Vision Air ,a lighter and cheaper version of its headset.
But that may no longer be the gameplame in Cuperinto. A new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims that Apple has dropped plans for its lighter Vision Pro. Allegedly, this move was made as part of an internal pivot to work on a set of smart glasses in the vein of the Meta Ray-Ban offerings.
CEO Tim Cook has long cited a desire to produce a set of Apple Glasses, with the most recent rumors claiming that the product would debut in 2027.
According to Gurman, Apple is developing two types of smart glasses. One, dubbed N50, would pair with your iPhone and lack a display, not unlike Meta’s spectacles. This model will allegedly be revealed next year ahead of a 2027 launch.
The other frames would feature a display meant to challenge the recently announced Meta Ray-Ban Display. Apple’s version was originally targeting a 2028 release, according to reports.
However, with this new reported pivot, it appears Apple is seeking to “accelerate development.” Apple’s specs are supposed to be heavily integrated with voice controls and AI — an area where Apple has struggled mightily.
Apple is set to release its overhauled Siri next spring, which would hopefully power a suite of smart home devices including a revamped HomePod 3 and other potential devices.
Late to the starting line
Apple already trails Meta and glasses from other companies. Despite an accelerated timeline, it’s not clear how much earlier Apple’s take on smart glasses will actually debut.
Meta is reportedly already developing glasses with two displays alongside its Project Orion glasses which are more AR-forward.
Meanwhile, Google debuted prototype XR glasses earlier this year and is teaming up with Xreal for its Android XR-powered Project Aura. Plus, there’s its partnership with Samsung on Samsung’s Project Moohan headset, and a set of “Haean” smart glasses that should debut within the next year.
Like the iPhone Fold that is supposed to launch next fall, part of the appeal will be the Apple logo on a refined-looking device whenever it launches.
The Vision Pro may not be dead
As mentioned, a refreshed Vision Pro featuring a faster chip should launch soon. And Gurman claims that Apple won’t totally dump the headset.
After a decade and $1 billion in R&D costs, it would be an expensive scrap heap. So the Vision Air may not be totally dead, just shoved to the back burner.
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