Apple Shifts Focus to AI Glasses, Halts Vision Pro Overhaul
- tech360.tv
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
Apple has halted a planned overhaul of its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, reallocating resources to accelerate development of smart glasses. This shift comes as the organisation aims to focus on future devices.
The company had been preparing a cheaper, lighter variant of the Vision Pro, code-named N100, for release in 2027. However, Apple informed staff last week that employees from that project would be moved to accelerate work on smart glasses.
The USD 3,499 Vision Pro, launched in Feb. 2024, has struggled to sustain momentum. This is attributed to a thin slate of mainstream content and competition from cheaper devices, such as Meta's Quest.
Apple is reportedly working on at least two types of smart glasses. The first, dubbed N50, will pair with an iPhone and will not feature its own display. Apple aims to unveil this model as early as next year, ahead of a release in 2027.
The second version, which will include a display, is planned for 2028. Apple is now seeking to accelerate development of this product, which could challenge devices like the Meta Ray-Ban Display.
These forthcoming Apple glasses are expected to rely heavily on voice interaction and artificial intelligence. This strategy comes as Apple, a laggard in the AI race, aims to close the gap with competitors like Google.
In Sept., Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased the company's first consumer-ready smart glasses. These USD 800 glasses featured a built-in display, and a new wristband controller, revealed at Meta's Connect event. Meta also unveiled Oakley-branded Vanguard glasses, aimed at athletes.
Last month, Apple introduced an upgraded line of iPhones and a slimmer iPhone Air at its annual product launch event. However, the event offered little evidence of how Apple plans to close its perceived gap in the artificial intelligence race with competitors like Google.
Apple has stopped an overhaul of its Vision Pro headset.
Resources are being redirected to accelerate the development of smart glasses.
Two types of smart glasses are in development, one without a display and another with a display, with target releases in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Source: REUTERS
