Apple Pivots to Smart Glasses, Pausing Vision Pro Lite Development

Apple has reportedly halted development on a more affordable Vision Pro headset. The company is shifting its resources to accelerate work on its first-generation smart glasses. This strategic move aims to compete directly with Meta’s AI-powered eyewear.

According to Bloomberg, engineers previously assigned to the lighter “Vision Air” project are now transitioning. This internal reallocation signals a significant change in Apple’s wearable product roadmap. The new focus is on delivering a glasses product to market faster.

Apple’s Smart Glasses to Rival Meta Ray-Bans

Apple’s upcoming smart glasses will feature cameras and microphones. They will rely heavily on advanced AI capabilities for user interaction. A potential launch could happen as early as 2027.

The initial model will not include a built-in display. Apple is, however, developing a separate version with an integrated screen. The company is now pushing to speed up this version’s development timeline. This urgency comes after Meta’s recent announcement of its own Ray-Ban Display AI glasses.

Meta’s new glasses feature a full-color display in one lens. This screen can show messages, photos, and information from its AI assistant. Despite the technology, the glasses maintain a relatively normal appearance.

The Broader Battle in Wearable AI

This shift highlights the intensifying competition in the AI wearables space. Meta currently has a more mature product line with several Ray-Ban iterations since 2023. Apple’s glasses will depend on a major Siri upgrade to compete effectively.

Apple’s success hinges on its next-generation Siri assistant. This new version, built on a fresh architecture, is expected in spring 2026. It will need to deliver robust, voice-based commands for the glasses to function as intended.

Apple plans to market its glasses as a fashion accessory. Buyers will have multiple frame styles and material options. The device will contain a custom Apple chip but will require a connection to an iPhone for full functionality.

The race for your face is accelerating. Apple’s pivot to smart glasses marks a critical new front in its battle with Meta over the future of AI-powered wearables.

Info at your fingertips

What features will Apple’s smart glasses have?

The glasses will include cameras, microphones, and AI capabilities. They will function primarily through voice commands. Health tracking features are also expected.

When will Apple release its smart glasses?

Apple could introduce the glasses as soon as next year. A full consumer launch is targeted for 2027. This timeline may change based on development progress.

How will Apple’s glasses differ from Meta’s?

The first Apple model will not have a display, unlike Meta’s newest Ray-Bans. Apple’s product will deeply integrate with the iPhone ecosystem. It will also rely heavily on an improved Siri.

Is the cheaper Vision Pro headset canceled?

Development has been paused, not permanently canceled. Apple has reassigned engineers to the smart glasses project. Work on a Vision Pro refresh with an M5 chip continues.

Why is Apple focusing on smart glasses now?

The decision is a competitive response to Meta’s recent advancements. Apple sees an urgent need to enter the AI glasses market. The company believes this product category has significant mainstream potential.

Trusted Sources

Bloomberg