While Apple's Vision Pro VR headset did not meet the expectations of success, the company is preparing for its next big step in the smartglasses field. Although there were concerns earlier this year that Apple might abandon its augmented reality (AR) glasses project, a new report from Bloomberg corrects these speculations. The Apple smartglasses, which are being developed under the codename 'N50', are still in development, but it is indicated that the device will have to wait years before it is available to the public.
Apple's smartglasses are not just an AR device; they are designed to work in conjunction with the company's AI platform, Apple Intelligence. These glasses will provide users with augmented reality experiences, as well as AI-based features. Although the Apple Intelligence revealed last year did not live up to expectations, Apple believes that it will play a crucial role in the company's future products. As part of this, Apple is also developing new AirPods with integrated cameras, which will collect information from the surroundings and pass it on to Apple Intelligence.
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A major change in Apple's AI development is also noteworthy. With a recent internal reorganization, the company is trying to upgrade Siri to a fully functional AI assistant. This upgraded Siri is expected to be the centerpiece of the operation of Apple's smart glasses. As a result, the company believes that users will get a more seamless and natural AI experience.
However, Apple's main competitor in the smart glasses market is Meta. Ray-Ban smart glasses, which were launched in October 2023, have already sold more than two million units and have gained market dominance. Meta’s Gen 3 Ray-Ban glasses are expected to be released in the fall of 2025 and could include display panels and advanced features like a neural wristband. The glasses are expected to remain priced at $300, although the US-China trade conflict could affect the price.
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Another of Meta’s multi-faceted projects is a pair of premium smart glasses codenamed ‘Hypernova’. The glasses, which will feature a display panel for viewing photos and apps, will be available for prices starting at $1,000, according to Bloomberg. Meta’s dominance in the smart glasses market and its innovative features pose a major challenge to Apple. However, Apple is trying to find its own niche in this competition, using the power of Apple intelligence and the innovation of Siri.