Apple sidelines lighter Vision Pro to prioritize smart glasses, shifting its focus away from a slimmed-down headset to a more ambitious AR eyewear project. According to Bloomberg, Apple is fast-tracking smart glasses that could directly compete with Meta’s offerings, even if this means delaying the Vision Pro’s lighter successor.
The company is reportedly developing two versions of its smart glasses. One is a simpler model without a display, which could be teased as early as 2026 and officially launched in 2027. The other is a more advanced model with an integrated display, initially slated for 2028, but now Apple wants to accelerate development.
Why Apple Is Betting On Smart Glasses Over Vision Pro
Apple’s decision to sideline the lighter Vision Pro suggests it sees long-term potential in smart glasses as the next big wave in consumer tech. Unlike bulky mixed-reality headsets, lightweight glasses are easier to wear daily, blending fashion and function.
By prioritizing smart glasses, Apple is aiming to redefine personal computing in a way that feels natural—glasses with built-in AI, voice controls, cameras, and stylish designs. This approach mirrors Meta’s collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley, signaling fierce competition ahead.
Features To Expect From Apple’s Smart Glasses
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AI and Voice Interaction – Siri and AI-driven commands will play a central role.
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Built-In Cameras and Speakers – Hands-free photos, videos, and music streaming.
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Multiple Styles – Fashion-forward designs to appeal to everyday users.
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Custom Apple Chip – Optimized for power efficiency and AR capabilities.
Apple wants its smart glasses to go beyond being a tech gadget—they’re positioning them as lifestyle products.
The Competitive Race Against Meta
Meta has already made headway with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, including a version with a built-in display in the right lens. Apple’s advanced glasses with a display could directly challenge that product, potentially offering deeper integration with iOS, Apple Music, and other ecosystem services.
Still, with the earliest launch not expected until 2027, Apple risks falling behind Meta, which is already iterating quickly in the AR glasses space. The real question is whether Apple’s signature polish and ecosystem integration will be enough to win late adopters.
What This Means For Apple’s Future
Apple’s move to prioritize smart glasses over the lighter Vision Pro signals a major strategic shift. The company is clearly betting that AR eyewear—rather than mixed-reality headsets—will be the gateway to mass adoption.
If Apple succeeds, smart glasses could become as essential as the iPhone. But with Meta already in the lead, Apple faces a race against time.
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