After discussing the basic Vision, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman assures us that Apple is working on other innovative products, including smart glasses similar to Meta’s collaboration with Ray-Ban, and AirPods equipped with cameras. These products should not be launched before 2027, if they pass the various internal validations.
Apple wants a return on investment
A pair of glasses
THE report suggests that Apple is looking to recoup some of its multibillion-dollar R&D investment in the technology developed for the Vision Pro by incorporating it into more products. We’ve already seen this with the iPhone 16’s camera control features powered by visual intelligence coming in iOS 18.2, and Apple’s next step would be to adapt this technology to a pair of glasses . The first models of Apple Glass in short.
Unlike the manufacturer’s mixed reality headset, these smart glasses would not have a full AR display, but would integrate cameras, speakers and microphones, like Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have gained some popularity. Meta versions start at $299, with more expensive options depending on the prescription lens or frame type. But in all cases, the price remains reasonable, far from the 4,000 euros requested for a Vision Pro that is certainly autonomous, but heavier and not yet effective enough overall. Meta’s Orion concept is more impressive, with capabilities close to the Vision Pro.
New AirPods
Furthermore, Apple is still working on AirPods with an integrated camera, a concept that has already been mentioned in rumors but also in patents. The purpose behind this product versus glasses isn’t entirely clear, and many wonder if AirPods are a suitable choice for outward-facing cameras. Despite this, Apple continues to explore this form factor as part of its visual intelligence initiatives.
