Apple’s foray into augmented and virtual reality with the Vision Pro headset faced mixed reactions, highlighting the challenges of high pricing and a cumbersome design. However, this initial reception hasn’t deterred the company from pursuing its ambitions in the wearable technology space. Reports suggest that Apple is actively exploring the development of smart glasses, marking a potential evolution in its AR/VR strategy.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on multiple iterations of smart glasses, some featuring advanced augmented reality (AR) capabilities and others with more minimalist designs. Notably, the company is adapting its visionOS software—the foundation of the Vision Pro headset—for use with smart glasses. This approach signals Apple’s intent to create a cohesive ecosystem across its wearable AR devices.
Internally, Apple is conducting studies under the “Atlas” program, gathering feedback from employees on what features and functionalities would resonate with users. Despite its innovative aspirations, Apple finds itself entering a competitive landscape. Companies like Meta and Google are already advancing their AR glasses initiatives. Meta’s Orion AR glasses are anticipated for a 2027 release, while Google has demonstrated its Android XR operating system as a platform for next-gen AR wearables.
Apple is reportedly also examining alternatives to full-fledged AR glasses, such as a potential rival to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, which blend style with basic functionality like call handling and music playback. Meta’s second-generation smart glasses now integrate with AI features, paving the way for a richer user experience. Similarly, Apple could leverage its expertise in AI and hardware design to differentiate its offerings, potentially incorporating camera-equipped AirPods or other wearable innovations.
The path to market-ready smart glasses is fraught with technical hurdles, such as miniaturizing displays, managing processing power, and integrating lightweight batteries without compromising comfort. Despite these challenges, Apple’s history of refining technology before launching suggests the company will take its time to ensure its smart glasses stand out.
(via Bloomberg)
