Apple shelves Vision Headset revamp to prioritize Meta-like AI glasses

Published: Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 2:25 pm

Apple Shifts Focus to Smart Glasses, Eyes AI-Driven Future

Apple is re-evaluating its augmented reality strategy, shifting resources away from a planned overhaul of its Vision Pro headset to prioritize the development of smart glasses. This strategic pivot aims to compete with Meta Platforms Inc. in the burgeoning market for AI-centric wearable devices.

The company has internally announced the reallocation of staff from a planned cheaper, lighter Vision Pro variant, code-named N100, slated for release in 2027. Instead, Apple is accelerating its work on smart glasses, with at least two models in development. The first, the N50, is designed to pair with an iPhone and is targeted for unveiling as early as next year, with a potential release in 2027. Apple is also working on a version with a display, potentially challenging Meta's Ray-Ban Meta glasses.

This shift in focus comes as Apple lags behind Meta, which has already released several iterations of smart glasses, including the Ray-Ban Stories in 2021 and the more recent Ray-Ban Meta in 2023. Meta has found success in the market, particularly with its AI-driven glasses.

Apple's smart glasses are expected to feature voice interaction and artificial intelligence, areas where the company has faced challenges. However, Apple is investing in a rebuilt Siri, planned for as early as March, to power its new range of devices, including glasses. The glasses are expected to offer various styles, a new chip, speakers, cameras, and voice-control features. Health-tracking capabilities are also being explored.

This strategic shift follows the underwhelming debut of the Vision Pro, which has been criticized for its weight, high price, and limited content. While Apple is still planning a modest refresh of the current Vision Pro design with a faster chip, the company is clearly prioritizing the development of smart glasses as a key component of its future product line.

BNN's Perspective:

The move by Apple to prioritize smart glasses over a Vision Pro revamp is a pragmatic decision. The market for wearable technology is evolving rapidly, and the potential for AI-driven glasses to become a mainstream device is significant. While Apple is playing catch-up to Meta, the company's resources and brand recognition give it a strong chance to succeed in this emerging market.

Keywords: Apple, smart glasses, Vision Pro, Meta, AI, augmented reality, wearable technology, N50, N100, Siri, Ray-Ban Meta, Tim Cook, technology, devices, hardware, artificial intelligence

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