Apple shelves Vision Pro overhaul to focus on AI glasses

In a strategic pivot, Apple is redirecting its resources from an overhaul of its Vision Pro VR glasses to prioritize the development of AI-powered smart glasses that aim to rival offerings from Meta. This information comes from a recent report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Initially, Apple was working on a more affordable and lightweight version of the Vision Pro. However, the company has opted to reassign personnel from this project to accelerate the creation of smart glasses. According to Bloomberg, Apple is now developing at least two distinct models of smart glasses. The first iteration, known internally as N50, is designed to pair with an iPhone and will not feature a standalone display. Apple is reportedly planning to unveil these smart glasses as early as next year, with a targeted release date set for 2027. The second variant is expected to include its own display, positioning it as a competitor to the recently launched Meta Ray-Ban Display. Although Apple initially aimed for a 2028 launch for this version, the company is actively working to fast-track its development. This shift underscores Apple's commitment to catching up in the smart glasses market, where it currently trails behind Meta, which introduced its first smart glasses in 2021.