Apple Shifts Focus From Vision Pro to Smart Glasses Amid Market Pressure

Apple has reportedly halted development of its planned Vision Pro headset overhaul to concentrate on smart glasses that could compete directly with Meta’s expanding lineup. According to Bloomberg, the iPhone maker was working on a lighter, more affordable headset — code-named N100 — that was expected to launch in 2027. However, Apple has now redirected staff from that project to speed up progress on smart glasses.

The Vision Pro, introduced in February 2024 at a premium price of $3,499, debuted to much anticipation but has since faced challenges. Sales momentum slowed due to limited mainstream content and stiff competition from cheaper mixed-reality devices like Meta’s Quest. In response, Apple is accelerating its efforts in wearable smart technology, an area gaining traction with consumers.

Bloomberg reports that Apple is developing at least two versions of smart glasses. The first, known internally as N50, will function as a companion device to the iPhone without its own display. Apple is aiming to unveil this model as early as next year, with a wider release targeted for 2027. The second model, featuring an integrated display, is planned for 2028 but could arrive sooner as Apple pushes to close the gap with Meta’s offerings, including the Ray-Ban Display glasses and the newly announced Oakley Vanguard glasses for athletes.

Apple’s upcoming smart glasses are expected to rely heavily on artificial intelligence and voice interaction, aligning with the industry’s broader push toward AI-driven consumer devices. Despite being considered behind competitors like Google in AI integration, Apple is seeking to reposition itself strategically in this growing market.

While Apple declined to comment on the reports, the move underscores the company’s shift toward wearables as it looks for the next breakthrough product category beyond smartphones. If successful, Apple’s smart glasses could redefine the AR landscape and provide stronger competition against Meta’s aggressive push in the sector.