Apple shelves Vision Pro overhaul to focus on AI glasses | TechCrunch
Key Takeaways
- Apple is sidelining plans for a cheaper Vision Pro to focus on developing AI smart glasses.
- Staff are being moved from the Vision Pro project to the new smart glasses initiative.
- Apple is developing at least two types of smart glasses, one without a display (N50) and one with a display.
- The non-display model (N50) may be unveiled next year and released in 2027.
- The display version is intended to compete with Meta's Ray-Ban Display glasses and its development is being expedited.
According to a report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple is shifting its focus away from overhauling the Vision Pro VR glasses, including a planned cheaper version, to concentrate on developing competitive AI smart glasses. Apple is reportedly moving personnel from the Vision Pro project to this new priority. The tech giant is developing two distinct types of smart glasses: one model, codenamed N50, will function by pairing with an iPhone and lack its own display, with a potential unveiling next year and release in 2027. The second, more advanced model will feature an integrated display, positioning it directly against Meta's recently unveiled Ray-Ban Display glasses, and Apple is attempting to accelerate its development timeline from the original 2028 target. This strategic pivot highlights Apple's attempt to catch up to Meta, which launched its initial smart glasses back in 2021.
