Apple Resumes Development of Augmented Reality Glasses, Postpones Full-Fledged Successor to Vision Pro Headset
Apple Resumes Development of Augmented Reality Glasses
After rumors and speculation surrounding Apple’s plans for augmented reality (AR) glasses, it seems that the tech giant has restarted development on this highly anticipated product. Last week, reports suggested that Apple had shifted focus away from a full-fledged successor to its Vision Pro mixed reality headset in favor of a more affordable version, set to launch in late 2025. However, new information from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicates that Apple is once again working on AR-based glasses.
Rumors of Apple’s foray into AR glasses date back to 2019, with initial reports suggesting a launch in 2023. Subsequent rumors pushed the release date to 2024. Now, with the Vision Pro MR headset already on the market, Gurman’s sources reveal that Apple is back in the game with renewed efforts to develop AR-only glasses.
While the development of these AR glasses is still in its early stages at Apple, the company is not expecting a quick turnaround. According to Gurman’s sources within the company, Apple is aware that this new product will take several years to come to fruition.
AR glasses are viewed as a way to provide smartphone-like features in a wearable headset without the bulk of traditional MR headsets. Competitors like Meta and XREAL are also in the game, with Meta already offering the Ray-Man Smart Glasses and hinting at a more advanced AR product in the future. XREAL, on the other hand, recently announced the XREAL Beam Pro, a smartphone-sized Android tablet designed for its AR glasses.
As the AR glasses market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what innovations Apple, Meta, and XREAL bring to the table in the coming years. Stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s progress in the development of AR glasses.