Apple Shifts Focus from Vision Pro to Smart Glasses

Apple is shifting its focus from a lighter version of the Vision Pro headset to the development of smart glasses. According to reports, the company has redirected resources to this new project, which is expected to debut by 2027 . This adjustment signals a change in Apple’s strategy for wearable technology, as the Vision Pro continues to face slow adoption.

What to Expect from Apple’s Smart Glasses

Codenamed N50, the smart glasses will not include a display but will connect directly with iPhones. The device is expected to feature cameras, microphones, and voice controls, offering users a hands-free experience similar to the Ray-Ban Meta glasses . Apple is also exploring a successor with display features, though this product may not arrive until 2028.

Unlike the much-hyped Apple Glass AR project, these smart glasses will focus on practicality rather than full augmented reality. Apple’s ecosystem advantage could give the product an edge, allowing seamless integration with iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods.

Apple’s shift comes as Meta pushes forward with its own smart glasses lineup. Meta has sold about 2 million units since 2023, while Vision Pro has only reached around 1 million sales since its 2024 launch . Price plays a role, with Vision Pro costing ten times more than Meta’s glasses.

Apple believes trust could also give it an advantage. Consumers may feel more comfortable with Apple products handling cameras and microphones in everyday settings, compared to Meta’s offerings.

Looking Ahead

The move to smart glasses does not mark the end of Vision Pro. Apple plans to continue refining visionOS and will release an M5 version as a bridge product until at least 2027. However, the arrival of smart glasses could represent Apple’s biggest wearable shift since the Apple Watch.

With a rumored launch window of 2026 or 2027, alongside other products like an iPhone Fold and an AI-powered Siri, Apple may be preparing for one of its busiest years in a decade .