Apple is changing its strategy in the world of wearable tech. Instead of continuing to develop a cheaper, lighter version of its Vision Pro VR headset, the company is now moving more resources into building AI-powered smart glasses that can compete with products from Meta. The report comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a reliable source on Apple’s internal plans.
From Vision Pro to Smart Glasses
The Vision Pro, Apple’s high-end mixed reality headset, launched with great attention earlier this year but has faced criticism for its bulkiness, high price, and limited mainstream appeal. Apple had been planning to make a more affordable and lighter version, but according to Bloomberg, that effort is now being pushed aside.
Instead, Apple is diverting staff and resources to smart glasses a product category that many believe could become the future of everyday wearables.
Two Versions of Apple’s Smart Glasses
Apple is reportedly working on two different types of smart glasses:
- N50 Glasses (Non-Display Model)
- Pairs with an iPhone, similar to how early Apple Watches required one.
- Will not include its own display.
- Designed as a lightweight, accessible entry point into AI-powered wearables.
- Expected unveiling: as soon as 2026 with a release targeted for 2027.
- Display Smart Glasses (Full AR/AI Model)
- Includes a built-in display, allowing digital information to appear directly in your field of vision.
- A direct competitor to Meta’s recently launched Ray-Ban Display glasses.
- Apple originally planned for release in 2028, but the timeline is now being fast-tracked.
Playing Catch-Up With Meta
While Apple is shifting gears, it is important to note that Meta has a head start. The company launched its first generation of smart glasses back in 2021 and recently revealed its Ray-Ban Display glasses, which combine AI-powered tools with a stylish, lightweight form factor.
By comparison, Apple is still years away from a product launch, meaning Meta could continue to shape the market before Apple arrives.
Why the Shift Matters
Apple’s change in strategy highlights several key realities:
- VR and AR headsets like Vision Pro are still niche products, mostly limited to enthusiasts and developers.
- Smart glasses could have a broader market since they are lighter, more wearable, and better suited for everyday tasks like navigation, translation, and hands-free AI assistance.
- Apple wants to stay competitive as AI becomes a major selling point in consumer technology.
What’s Next?
Apple is betting that AI smart glasses will eventually replace bulky VR headsets as the primary way people interact with wearable computing. While Vision Pro may still get updates, it seems clear that the company’s long-term focus is shifting toward lightweight, AI-driven eyewear.
The question now is whether Apple can catch up to Meta, which already has multiple generations of smart glasses in the market, or whether its delayed entry will make it harder to dominate like it has with the iPhone and Apple Watch.
