Apple Smart Glasses, Cheaper Vision Pro Reportedly in Apple’s Roadmap

Apple is reportedly gearing up to expand its product lineup with two significant additions: a more affordable version of the Apple Vision Pro and its long-rumored Smart Glasses. According to recent reports, these devices are on Apple’s product roadmap and could see the light of day in the near future. While the cheaper Vision Pro might be launched as soon as next year, the Smart Glasses are said to still be in the experimental phase, with a launch several years away.

Apple's Plans for a Cheaper Vision Pro

In his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman revealed that Apple is committed to its headset-focused product expansion despite the challenges it faced with the Apple Vision Pro. The tech giant is reportedly planning to introduce a stripped-down version of the Vision Pro, potentially by 2025. This version is expected to come with fewer features and be priced significantly lower than the current model, which carries a premium price tag.

Gurman has mentioned this cheaper Vision Pro variant in previous reports, suggesting that it could be priced between $1,500 (roughly ₹125,900) and $2,000 (roughly ₹167,900). The exact features that Apple might exclude to reduce costs remain unclear. However, rumors suggest that the company could remove some sensors and cameras, or use more affordable materials to build the device.

Apple Smart Glasses: Still in the Works

While the cheaper Vision Pro could arrive next year, Apple’s Smart Glasses are still further down the line. These augmented reality (AR) glasses, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, are reportedly still in the experimental phase. Gurman first reported on these Smart Glasses in February, noting that technical challenges had stalled their development.

Despite these challenges, Gurman now claims that Apple remains committed to bringing its AR glasses to market. However, a specific launch timeline has not been confirmed. A previous report suggested that the Smart Glasses could be introduced in 2027, but this is still speculative at this stage.

What’s Next for the Vision Pro?

In addition to the rumored cheaper Vision Pro, Apple is also reportedly working on a second-generation model of the mixed reality headset. This updated version is expected to feature several enhancements, including a faster processor and improved external cameras. Apple is also exploring ways to make the device lighter and more comfortable for extended use, addressing some of the feedback from early users of the first-generation Vision Pro.

The Vision Pro, Apple’s first foray into the mixed reality space, has been a significant focus for the company. The upcoming cheaper variant and the second-generation model underscore Apple’s commitment to refining and expanding its mixed reality offerings, making them more accessible to a broader audience.

Conclusion

Apple’s roadmap for its mixed reality and AR products is ambitious. With a more affordable Vision Pro potentially launching next year and Smart Glasses in development, Apple is positioning itself to be a key player in the AR and mixed reality space. These developments could make advanced AR experiences more accessible, but only time will tell how these products will be received by consumers and how they will compete in the evolving tech landscape.

Stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News for more updates on Apple’s upcoming innovations and other tech industry news.