Apple Shifts Focus From Vision Pro to Smart Glasses to Rival Meta
Apple is making a significant shift in its product strategy, reportedly putting the lighter version of the Vision Pro headset on hold to concentrate on smart glasses. According to a Bloomberg report, the company is gearing up to compete directly with Meta in the augmented reality glasses market, with a launch expected within the next 12 to 15 months.
The report suggests Apple will follow a dual-approach similar to Meta, offering two versions of the smart glasses: one that pairs with an iPhone and another with a built-in display for standalone functionality. The simpler, phone-reliant model is expected to include features akin to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses. Apple’s AR glasses could be unveiled by late 2026, with availability by early 2027, while the display-equipped version may arrive in 2028.
From Vision Pro to Smart Glasses
Apple appears to be redeploying its Vision Pro development team to focus on the smart glasses. Leaks indicate the new glasses will feature a camera and microphone for capturing surroundings, along with built-in speakers for music playback. Apple is expected to emphasize premium design and lightweight materials, ensuring the glasses are stylish and comfortable.
Tim Cook’s Big Bet
The move reflects Apple CEO Tim Cook’s strong commitment to the smart glasses segment, especially with the growing influence of AI. Reports suggest Cook is prioritizing this project above all else in product development, aiming to surpass Meta in the AR space.
However, there’s a potential challenge: by the time Apple launches its first smart glasses in 2027, Meta is likely to be on its second-generation display glasses, possibly with several additional iterations already in the market.
