Apple Delays Cheaper Vision Pro to Focus on Smart Glasses, First Model Coming in 2026
 |
| Concept of Apple smart glasses with modern design and AI-powered technology. |
Apple has reportedly postponed the release of a lighter and more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset to focus on developing smart glasses instead. According to a Bloomberg report, the Cupertino-based tech giant has shifted its priorities, transferring part of the Vision Pro team to work on the new smart eyewear project.
Initially, Apple planned to launch the budget-friendly Vision Pro model in 2027. However, that timeline has changed as the company redirects its efforts toward two versions of smart glasses currently in development. The first model — which won’t include a display — could be unveiled as early as next year, with sales starting in 2027. The second version, featuring a built-in screen inside the lenses, was originally scheduled for 2028 but is now being fast-tracked.
Sources familiar with the project told Bloomberg that both variants will include integrated speakers, cameras, and voice controls powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Apple is also reportedly developing a dedicated chip designed specifically for these smart glasses. The design will come in several styles, similar to Meta’s smart glasses line, which is produced in collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley.
If true, this marks a major strategic shift for Apple’s augmented reality (AR) ambitions. So far, the company has focused on the high-end Vision Pro — a premium mixed-reality headset priced at thousands of dollars and targeted at professionals and creators. With smart glasses, however, Apple appears to be aiming for a wider audience, offering a more lightweight and casual approach to AR technology.
For comparison, Meta recently launched the next generation of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, featuring longer battery life, sport editions developed with Oakley, and a new Ray-Ban Display model with a screen embedded in the right lens. With this growing competition, Apple seems determined not to fall behind in the emerging smart glasses race — even if it arrives later than its rivals.
Meanwhile, Apple is still preparing a minor update to the original Vision Pro. Regulatory filings suggest that an upgraded model with improved performance and power efficiency — but no major design changes — could debut as early as late this year. Bloomberg described it as a “modest refresh,” rather than a full redesign.
With this shift in focus, Apple appears to be restructuring its mixed-reality roadmap. Smart glasses could serve as the bridge to a new generation of wearable AI devices — lighter, more practical, and seamlessly integrated into the Apple ecosystem alongside iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods.
If successful, Apple could become a major player in the smart glasses market, which is currently led by Meta, Xreal, and Snap. But as always, Apple is known for taking its time to perfect new products — meaning fans may need to wait a few more years before they can finally experience “Apple Glasses” in action.
