Over the past few months, we’ve come across reports claiming that a new XR headset was in development at Apple, one that would be significantly cheaper than the $3,500 Vision Pro headset. It seems those plans have now been shelved and Apple has shifted its attention to other wearable projects.
The big shift
Following the Vision Pro’s launch, Apple reportedly started working on a watered-down version of the headset, one that would employ less advanced optics. The overarching idea was to boost the adoption of headsets as a new form of computing by bringing down the cost barrier. But it seems a more affordable Apple headset is no longer on the horizon.
“For years, Apple planned to quickly follow the Vision Pro with a stripped-down model that shared the same general look as the first version. That idea was scrapped in favor of the larger overhaul which would have brought a completely new design and lighter frame. Now that project is on the back burner as well,” reports Bloomberg.
For now, Apple is only eyeing an iterative upgrade of the Vision Pro, one that will retain the core design and engineering, but will adopt a faster silicon. This model was recently spotted on a regulatory database and could launch towards the end of the year.
The new priorities
The Vision Pro is an engineering marvel, but far from mainstream success. Its bulky design and uncomfortable fit ensured that using the headset for a prolonged spell, either for spatial computing or viewing content, wasn’t a particularly good idea. Additionally, the shortage of immersive content and a diverse software ecosystem proved to be another hurdle in its mainstream adoption. Plus, they look odd. Smart glasses, on the other hand, have received social acceptance due to their “normal” looks.
Apple has apparently resized that, as well. Instead of headsets, Apple is now moving full steam ahead with smart glasses. Meta tasted early success with the Ray-Ban Stories AI smart glasses, followed by versions created in partnership with Oakley. A next-gen variant with a built-in display and wrist-based controls is now on the shelves.
Apple is reportedly chasing a similar trajectory. According to Bloomberg, Apple’s first smart glasses will feature an onboard camera and will work in tandem with an iPhone. They are expected to go official next year. For 2028, the company is planning something even more impressive by equipping the glasses with a built-in display.
