Apple Reportedly Developing New Vision Pro Models
Apple is reportedly working on expanding its Vision Pro lineup, with plans to develop two new models of the AR/VR headset. According to a recent report, the tech giant aims to release a more affordable and lighter version of the device, alongside another model engineered for seamless integration with Mac computers. This move signals Apple’s continued commitment to the mixed reality space, seeking to broaden the appeal of Vision Pro despite initial demand fluctuations, Bloomberg reported Monday.
More Affordable Vision Pro in Development
The anticipated lower-cost Vision Pro variant is expected to feature a less powerful processor and reduced functionalities to achieve a significantly lower price point than the original $3,500 model. Additionally, this streamlined version will likely incorporate an ultra-low latency system for efficient Mac display streaming, as detailed in the report.
Smart Glasses Still a Priority
Echoing previous reports, Apple’s ambitions extend beyond headsets, with ongoing development of smart glasses equipped with cameras and microphones, similar to Meta’s Ray-Ban offerings. CEO Tim Cook reportedly considers the creation of true AR glasses a paramount objective, according to a source described as an Apple engineer in the Bloomberg report. This aligns with the company’s long-term vision, viewing camera and microphone-enabled glasses as a crucial intermediate step until the technology for comfortable, everyday wearable AR glasses is perfected.
Visual Intelligence Investment
This initiative builds upon previous indications that Apple intends to leverage its substantial, billion-dollar investment in Vision Pro’s visual intelligence for future product innovations. These future products are expected to include smart glasses, potentially launching as early as 2027.
Competitive Landscape and Meta
In recent years, Apple has frequently prioritized refining existing technologies in burgeoning sectors like mixed-reality headsets and AI features. Currently, Meta appears to hold a stronger position in the smart glasses market, consistently enhancing its hardware, software, and expanding ecosystem of services. However, Tim Cook is reportedly determined to establish an industry-leading product in this domain before Meta can solidify its dominance.
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Integration with Apple Intelligence
The upcoming smart glasses are expected to utilize Siri and Visual Intelligence as integral components of Apple’s broader Apple Intelligence AI platform. True to Apple’s established product philosophy, privacy will remain a central design principle.
Challenges to Mass Adoption
Nevertheless, Apple may encounter obstacles in making smart glasses as indispensable as its other flagship products, particularly the iPhone. Furthermore, achieving a price point accessible enough to drive mass adoption remains a critical consideration for the company’s success in this market.
Expert Analysis: Long-Term Vision
ABI Research Perspective
Eric Abbruzzese, Research Director at ABI Research, a market research firm, characterizes Apple’s pursuit of smart glasses as a “long-term priority.”
“AR has proven to be more technically challenging than VR in delivering commercially viable devices that balance cost and functionality,” Abbruzzese stated. “The concept of AR serving as a complement to smartphones, similar to the Apple Watch, represents a highly compelling product category that is only now beginning to be adequately addressed.”
Market Potential and AI Integration
The popularity of glasses like Meta’s Ray-Bans demonstrates consumer interest in smart eyewear. However, developing eyewear with integrated displays presents significant engineering hurdles, according to Abbruzzese. Simultaneously, AR and AI are increasingly interconnected, with major tech companies like Apple, Meta, and Google developing products that fuse these technologies.
Abbruzzese envisions the ultimate “holy grail” product as mass-market smart glasses – an affordable, display-enabled wearable that seamlessly pairs with a smartphone, utilizing sensors, voice commands, and AI agents for intuitive, hands-free interaction.
“The synergy between AR and AI is substantial and mutually beneficial, with each technology enhancing the potential of the other,” he concluded.
