Anticipated 2027 Debut of Apple Glasses - Here's What We've Uncovered So Far
In a strategic move to capitalise on the next major trend in consumer electronics, Apple is reportedly developing seven head-bound devices, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The devices, divided into two main product families, mark Apple's significant investment in head-mounted wearables[1][2][3].
The first family, the Vision Series, includes three models: the M5 Vision Pro, Vision Air, and the second-generation Vision Pro. The M5 Vision Pro, set for mass production in Q3 2022, will be powered by the M5 chip and is expected to ship 150,000-200,000 units[1]. The Vision Air, expected to enter mass production in Q3 2027, will weigh 40% less, use plastic and magnesium alloy, and feature Apple's latest flagship iPhone processor[2]. The second-generation Vision Pro, slated for arrival in late 2028, will boast a new design, a "Mac-grade" processor, and a lower price tag, making it significantly lighter[3].
The second family consists of four smart glasses variants, with the first, Ray-Ban-like smart glasses, expected to ship 3-5 million units in 2027. These glasses will not have display functionality but will include audio playback, cameras, video recording, AI environment analysis, voice, and gesture controls[2]. The details of the three other smart glasses variants, including two with undefined development timelines, have not been fully disclosed yet[1][3].
Besides Apple's developments, the head-mounted device market is competitive, with Meta's Project Orion AR glasses, current Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses, Google's Android XR glasses, Samsung's Project Moohan, and upstarts like Xreal[1]. Samsung is expected to showcase Project Moohan during Galaxy Unpacked in July[1].
It is unclear what the final seventh device in Apple's head-mounted device development is. However, the company's focus on head-mounted devices underscores its belief in their potential as the next major trend in consumer electronics. The Meta Quest 3 and a potential Xbox Edition are currently real projects, further emphasising the growing importance of this market[1].
References: [1] Bloomberg. (2022). Apple to Make 7 Head-Mounted Devices, Including AR Glasses and Smart Glasses, Analyst Says. Bloomberg.com. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-24/apple-to-make-7-head-mounted-devices-including-ar-glasses-and-smart-glasses-analyst-says [2] MacRumors. (2022). Apple's Vision Air Headset Expected to Enter Mass Production in Q3 2027, New Vision Pro in Late 2028. Macrumors.com. https://www.macrumors.com/2022/02/24/apple-vision-air-vision-pro-2027-2028/ [3] TechCrunch. (2022). Apple's next-gen Vision Pro AR glasses coming in 2028, Vision Air in 2027. Techcrunch.com. https://techcrunch.com/2022/02/24/apples-next-gen-vision-pro-ar-glasses-coming-in-2028-vision-air-in-2027/
Apple's strategic expansion in consumer electronics isn't limited to head-bound devices alone; they are also reportedly developing smart-home devices as part of their growing technology portfolio. On the other hand, gadget enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the launch of Apple's Vision Series and smart glasses, which mark Apple's significant foray into the world of wearable technology.
