Apple Shelves Cheaper Vision Pro, Pivots to AI Smart Glasses

Apple is changing its hardware plans. The company has paused work on a cheaper version of the Vision Pro headset. Instead, it is focusing on AI-powered smart glasses. This is a major move that could shape the next decade of Apple devices.

Why Apple Is Shifting Focus

Apple’s cheaper headset project, nicknamed Vision Air, was expected to launch soon. But reports say the project is now on hold. Engineers who worked on it are moving to Apple’s smart glasses division.

Apple believes that people will prefer lightweight glasses over a bulky headset. The Vision Pro is expensive and mainly for niche users. Smart glasses are lighter, easier to wear, and could appeal to more people.

Two Smart Glasses Models in Development

Apple is reportedly building two different smart glasses models:

• Display-less glasses:

These glasses will pair with an iPhone. They will focus on voice commands and AI. No built-in screen keeps them lightweight and affordable.

• Display-equipped glasses:

These are more advanced. They will include a screen for augmented reality content. This model is expected later, possibly a year or two after the first one.

Both models may include cameras, microphones, and sensors. Apple is likely adding AI features to help users interact with the real world more easily.

AI Is the Core

Artificial intelligence is central to these new glasses. Apple wants them to act like always-on assistants. Users may talk to them to get directions, translations, or reminders.

Apple may also launch a new AI voice assistant specifically for wearables. This would make the glasses feel smart and interactive, rather than just a device you wear.

Timeline and Challenges

Analysts predict the first model could launch around 2027. The display-equipped version might come in 2028 or later.

Apple faces many challenges:

• Comfort: Glasses must be light and easy to wear.

• Battery: They need enough power to last all day.

• AI performance: Voice commands must be accurate in any environment.

• Design: Apple must balance style, function, and price.

Even with these hurdles, Apple’s focus on AI glasses shows how important wearables are for the company’s future.

What This Means for Vision Pro

For Vision Pro users, this shift is mixed news:

• The existing headset is still supported.

• A cheaper, redesigned Vision Pro may not appear soon.

• Apple seems to be prioritizing mass-market smart glasses over high-end headsets.

Some analysts believe this shows Apple sees glasses as the next major platform, while the Vision Pro remains a premium product.

Why This Strategy Makes Sense

Apple’s pivot has several advantages:

• Affordability: Glasses could reach more users.

• Practicality: Lighter devices are easier to wear daily.

• AI integration: Voice commands and smart assistants can enhance daily life.

• Competition: Companies like Meta are already investing in AI smart eyewear. Apple doesn’t want to fall behind.

If Apple succeeds, these glasses could become one of its most important devices in the next decade.

Apple’s cheaper headset project, nicknamed Vision Air, was expected to launch soon. But reports say the project is now on hold. Engineers who worked on it are moving to Apple’s smart glasses division.

Final Thoughts

Apple pausing the cheaper Vision Pro shows its commitment to AI wearables. The company believes smart glasses will be the future of personal computing.

Some analysts believe this shows Apple sees glasses as the next major platform, while the Vision Pro remains a premium product.

These glasses could be more than gadgets. They could act like assistants you wear. Apple is taking a risk, but if it pays off, smart glasses could define a new era in technology.

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