Apple to Introduce Seven Upcoming Vision and Smart Glasses Products by 2027, Predicts Analyst
In a significant move towards the future of consumer electronics, Apple has announced its planned release timeline for a series of head-mounted devices, including the Vision Pro models, smart glasses, and XR glasses.
Kicking off the innovation is the Apple Vision Pro, set for an upgrade in Q3 2025. This revised version will feature an upgrade from the M2 to the M5 processor, marking a modest yet significant update. The initial production run is expected to be between 150,000 and 200,000 units, serving as a niche product to maintain market presence and further develop the ecosystem [1][3].
The year 2026 will see no new head-mounted devices from Apple, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo [1]. However, the anticipation builds for 2027, with a broader lineup rollout on the horizon.
In the second half of 2027, Apple is expected to introduce the Apple Vision Air, a substantially lighter XR headset, powered by the same processor as the flagship iPhone of that year. This new form factor will be approximately 40% lighter than the current Vision Pro, thanks to glass-to-plastic replacement and magnesium alloy [3].
Also in 2027, Apple's smart glasses, inspired by Meta's Ray-Ban Meta glasses, are set for mass production in Q2. These glasses will focus on audio playback, cameras, video recording, AI world analysis, and voice/gesture controls, but will likely lack display functionality [2][4].
The second half of 2028 will see the release of the second-generation Apple Vision Pro, boasting a completely new design, significantly lighter build, and a lower price point. This model will feature a Mac-grade processor, differentiating it from the Vision Air [3].
Furthermore, a set of XR glasses equipped with liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) displays is predicted for a late 2028 release [2].
Apple's smart glasses are designed to lean into AI, aiming to provide intuitive functionality beyond what current competitors offer. The development of XR Glasses featuring LCoS displays, voice control, and gesture recognition is underway, with the goal of rivaling AR offerings from Meta and Xiaomi [1].
Interestingly, the development of a display-tethered accessory for the Apple Vision Max has been shelved, but not entirely cancelled [1].
The Apple Vision Pro was launched in the UAE in November 2024 and is available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB options. Customers can purchase the Apple Vision Pro online, through the Apple Store app, or at Apple Store locations in the UAE [5].
Apple has a long-term roadmap for seven different head-mounted products, including future iterations of the Vision Pro and a new line of smart glasses [1]. As Apple continues to innovate and push the boundaries of consumer electronics, we can expect exciting developments in the realm of head-mounted devices in the coming years.
[1] Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple Insider, https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/09/27/apple-vision-pro-to-launch-in-q3-2025-ray-ban-style-smart-glasses-coming-in-q2-2027 [2] Mark Gurman, Bloomberg, https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-09-21/apple-is-working-on-xr-glasses-that-would-rival-meta-and-xiaomi [3] Chaim Gartenberg, The Verge, https://www.theverge.com/2022/9/27/23378486/apple-vision-pro-m5-chip-m2-to-m5-upgrade-2025-ar-smart-glasses [4] Chaim Gartenberg, The Verge, https://www.theverge.com/2022/9/27/23378486/apple-vision-pro-m5-chip-m2-to-m5-upgrade-2025-ar-smart-glasses [5] Apple, Apple Store, https://www.apple.com/ae/shop/buy-mac/vision-pro
- The news of Apple's planned release timeline for head-mounted devices also includes the announcement of smart glasses, resembling Meta's Ray-Ban Meta glasses, set for mass production in Q2 2027.
- In the realm of real estate and lifestyle, the potential impact of Apple's XR glasses, featuring liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) displays, slated for a late 2028 release, could revolutionize virtual property tours and remote home buying experiences.
- Aside from the XR glasses, fashion enthusiasts may find the anticipated second-generation Apple Vision Pro, planned for a lower price point and a lighter build in the second half of 2028, an appealing addition to their tech-oriented wardrobe.
- In the world of entertainment and business, the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro in Q3 2025, followed by the Apple Vision Air in 2027, and subsequent products in the following years, is expected to create a booming market for gaming, movies, and other immersive experiences.
- The development of Apple's head-mounted devices, such as the Vision Pro and smart glasses, is strongly influenced by advancements in technology, aiming to offer superior performance, sleek designs, and innovative features, ultimately redefining the gadgets we use in our daily lives.
