Reimagining the Vision Pro
There are indications that Apple is still exploring the development of a more accessible, lightweight iteration of its Vision Pro headset, potentially mirroring the design philosophy behind Meta's VR solutions. However, insiders suggest the initiative is currently being treated with caution, with any viable product unlikely to emerge before 2028 or 2029.
According to reports from Mark Gurman, the internal project—codenamed N224—is examining several distinct design concepts. One approach being explored involves offloading processing components to external devices to reduce the weight of the headset, a design choice similar to some of Meta’s newer hardware. Despite this, there is no internal consensus; some teams argue for maintaining the self-contained, all-in-one architecture that defined the original Vision Pro.
The Future of the Segment
Gurman suggests the project is currently on "life support," raising questions about whether it will ever reach commercial release or if Apple might pivot away from this product category entirely. The original Vision Pro has struggled to gain widespread traction, largely hindered by its premium pricing, significant weight, and general consumer hesitation toward adopting full-face headset technology.
In contrast, Meta has maintained a stronger market position with its Quest series, which appeals to users seeking a more casual, budget-friendly experience. While the Vision Pro is often cited for superior technical specifications, its high entry price has severely limited its potential user base.
Smart Glasses vs. VR Headsets
Beyond headsets, there is speculation that Apple is developing smart glasses, though these are not anticipated until at least 2027. The sector remains controversial, as public perception of such devices has been complicated by privacy concerns. Nonetheless, many industry analysts believe smart glasses represent a fundamental shift in how we interact with AI-driven technology.
The core challenge remains balancing form factor with functionality. While VR headsets like the Vision Pro offer robust mixed-reality capabilities for work and entertainment, the physical weight of such devices often leads to user fatigue that conventional screens do not cause.
As companies like Snap have demonstrated by waiting years to refine their wearable technology, finding the perfect balance between comfort and utility is essential. Whether Apple ultimately pursues a lighter headset or transitions toward a glasses-based form factor remains one of the most closely watched developments in the industry.