Apple halts Vision Pro upgrade to develop Meta-like smart glasses
What's the story
Apple has put a hold on the planned upgrade of its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset. The company is now focusing on developing smart glasses that could take on Meta in the market. According to Bloomberg, Apple was working on a lighter and cheaper version of the Vision Pro headset, dubbed N100, which was scheduled for a 2027 launch.
Strategic pivot
Shift in focus from N100 project to smart glasses
Apple has decided to shift its focus from the N100 project to smart glasses. The company informed its employees working on the N100 project about this change last week. The decision is aimed at accelerating the development of these new smart glasses. Apple hopes that by prioritizing this project, it can compete with Meta's offerings in a more timely manner.
Market hurdles
Apple is working on two different types of smart glasses
The $3,499 Vision Pro headset, launched in February 2024, has been struggling with sales. The device is said to be lacking in content and facing competition from cheaper alternatives such as Meta's Quest. Despite these challenges, Apple is still working on at least two different types of smart glasses models.
Product details
One of the models will use iPhone's display
The first model, dubbed N50, will connect to an iPhone and won't have its own display. Apple plans to unveil this model as early as next year with a 2027 release date. The second model will have its own display and was initially planned for a 2028 launch. However, Apple is now trying to speed up this project so it can take on Meta's Ray-Ban Display sooner than expected.
Tech specs
Smart glasses expected to rely heavily on voice interaction, AI
Apple's upcoming smart glasses are expected to heavily rely on voice interaction and artificial intelligence. The move comes as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently unveiled Meta's first consumer smart glasses at $800, complete with a built-in display and a new wristband controller.