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Apple Halts Vision Pro Overhaul to Focus on AI-Powered Smart Glasses

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Apple has paused development of its next-generation Vision Pro headset to redirect resources toward the creation of artificial intelligence-powered smart glasses, according to a report by Bloomberg News citing people familiar with the matter.

The company had been working on a cheaper and lighter version of its $3,499 Vision Pro — code-named N100 — with a tentative release window in 2027. However, Apple reportedly told employees last week that development teams will now shift their focus to an AI glasses project, accelerating its timeline to compete directly with Meta Platforms’ smart eyewear.

The decision reflects Apple’s changing strategy in the face of slowing Vision Pro sales. The mixed-reality headset, launched in February 2024, received strong initial attention but quickly lost momentum amid limited mainstream content and competition from more affordable alternatives like Meta’s Quest series.

TWO NEW GLASSES MODELS IN DEVELOPMENT

Apple is said to be working on two distinct smart glasses models:

  • N50, the first version, will connect to an iPhone and will not include a display. Apple aims to unveil this model as early as next year, with a public release planned for 2027.

  • A second, more advanced model — equipped with a built-in display — is now being fast-tracked for release around 2028, according to Bloomberg’s sources.

The advanced model is seen as Apple’s answer to Meta’s Ray-Ban Display glasses, which CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased in September along with a new Oakley-branded “Vanguard” model designed for athletes.

Apple’s upcoming glasses will reportedly emphasize voice control and AI-driven functions, integrating tightly with iPhone services and Apple’s growing ecosystem of on-device intelligence.

SHIFTING STRATEGY IN THE AI ERA

The move highlights Apple’s broader push to catch up in artificial intelligence, an area where competitors such as Google and Meta have been more aggressive.

At Apple’s September product launch event, the company introduced new iPhones and a slimmer iPhone Air, but industry analysts noted the absence of major AI announcements, raising questions about Apple’s roadmap in the rapidly evolving AI market.

By contrast, Google’s Gemini-powered Pixel phones and Meta’s AI-integrated wearables have taken the spotlight in the consumer AI space.

When contacted by Reuters, Apple declined to comment on the report.

If the timeline holds, Apple’s shift could mark a major strategic pivot from mixed reality to wearable AI, positioning its smart glasses as a potential successor — not just a companion — to the iPhone.

Meta unveils smart glasses with built-in display, eyes AI “superintelligence”

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Meta Platforms (META.O) launched its first consumer-ready smart glasses with a built-in display on Wednesday, expanding its Ray-Ban line as part of CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s push toward artificial intelligence “superintelligence.”

Unveiled at Meta’s annual Connect event in Menlo Park, California, the new Ray-Ban Display glasses include a digital screen embedded in the right lens for tasks such as notifications. Priced at $799, they will be available starting September 30 and ship with a wristband that translates hand gestures into commands like responding to messages or answering calls.

“Glasses are the ideal form factor for personal superintelligence, because they let you stay present in the moment while getting access to all of these AI capabilities that make you smarter, help you communicate better, improve your memory, improve your senses, and more,” Zuckerberg said.

The launch highlights Meta’s bid to stay competitive in the AI race, even as it lags behind rivals like OpenAI and Google (GOOGL.O) in advanced model development. The company is investing tens of billions of dollars in AI chips and talent as it pursues its long-term vision of “Orion” glasses, slated for 2027.

Meta also introduced Oakley Vanguard glasses aimed at athletes, priced at $499, with features like real-time performance stats synced to Garmin and Strava, nine-hour battery life, and availability from October 21. Its existing Ray-Ban line also received an update, with improved cameras and nearly doubled battery life at $379.

Despite the splashy debut, analysts expect modest near-term sales for the Display glasses. IDC research manager Jitesh Ubrani said the tech offered “great value” but noted the software still needs to mature. Forrester’s Mike Proulx compared the launch to Apple’s early smartwatch push—functional but still needing to prove everyday utility.

The debut comes as Meta faces heightened scrutiny over safety issues on its platforms, with regulators and whistleblowers raising concerns about the impact of its technologies on children.

Zuckerberg, who fumbled a live demo call on stage, laughed off the glitch. “I don’t know what to tell you guys. I keep on messing this up,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.

IDC forecasts global shipments of AR/VR devices and smart glasses without displays to grow 39.2% in 2025 to 14.3 million units, with Meta expected to drive much of the increase through its more affordable Ray-Ban line.

Amazon Developing Consumer AR Glasses to Compete With Meta

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Amazon is working on augmented reality (AR) glasses for consumers, according to a report from The Information. The project, internally codenamed “Jayhawk,” would mark Amazon’s first major step into the consumer AR market, setting up direct competition with Meta Platforms.

The AR glasses are expected to feature microphones, speakers, a camera, and a full-color display in one eye, with a planned rollout in late 2026 or early 2027. Amazon declined to comment on the report.

This initiative builds on Amazon’s earlier work with specialized AR eyewear for delivery drivers, revealed in a Reuters exclusive last year. That model, designed to provide turn-by-turn navigation on a small screen, is set for release as early as the second quarter of 2026, with an initial production of about 100,000 units.

Both the delivery glasses and the consumer version will share the same underlying display technology, but the consumer model will reportedly be sleeker and less bulky, offering a full-color experience tailored to everyday use.

The move positions Amazon directly against Meta, which has invested heavily in AR eyewear. Meta is expected to unveil a new version of its AR glasses at its Connect conference next week, building on the success of its Ray-Ban Meta line, developed with EssilorLuxottica’s Oakley, which has sold millions of units since its 2023 launch.

If Amazon delivers on its timeline, the consumer AR market could see a major clash between two of the world’s largest tech companies by 2027.