At WWDC23 in June remaining year, Apple added its first spatial computing product: the Apple Vision Pro. Now, over a year later, and 6 months after the product hit the marketplace, there is developing interest about what Apple plans to do next in the world of “Apple spatial computing.” With Meta recently displaying off their Orion AR glasses prototype, it’s herbal to wonder what Apple has in store for the destiny.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple recognizes that it can want to “rethink its technique to headsets,” even though it’s no longer absolutely clean yet how they plan to achieve this. Gurman’s reports recommend that Apple is exploring several possible paths for the future of the Apple Vision.
More Headsets in the Works
The most straightforward option is for Apple to continue building new headsets.
First, they are expected to release a cheaper version of the Apple Vision, possibly called “Vision Air.” This version would have lower-quality displays and use more affordable materials. If everything stays on track, this product could launch as early as next year.
In addition, Apple is working on a second generation of the Apple Vision Pro. This model is rumored to feature a more powerful M5 chip and advanced AI technology, along with improved, lighter displays.
Although this path makes sense, it might not be enough to keep Apple ahead of the competition, which is why they are reportedly considering other options.
Turning the Headset into an iPhone Accessory
Another idea Apple is exploring is creating a version of the Apple Vision Pro that depends on your iPhone for processing power and battery life. This would allow the headset itself to be lighter, but it could be an odd move.
By removing the built-in processors and external battery, Apple could lower the production cost by hundreds of dollars. However, would people really pay $2,000 for a product that is essentially an iPhone accessory? It’s hard to say.
The iPhone’s battery is also much smaller than the one in the Apple Vision Pro, so there are questions about whether it would last long enough. Even the Vision Pro’s 35.9Wh battery only powers it for about two hours. In comparison, an iPhone 16 Pro Max has an 18Wh battery, making it less ideal for powering a headset.
Smart Glasses and AirPods?
Apple might also be looking at products that don’t involve a display at all. One option is something similar to Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. These glasses don’t have screens, but instead come with microphones, cameras, and speakers. They let you ask Meta AI questions, take pictures, and listen to music. Apple could develop something similar.
Another option is enhancing AirPods with more advanced AI features, including external cameras. While this idea might sound a bit odd, smart glasses without displays could be an interesting move for Apple.
Apple’s Ultimate Goal
Ideally, Apple wants to create fully functional AR glasses that look and feel just like regular glasses. The dream is to fit the computer, displays, battery, and all other components into a sleek and lightweight frame.
Apple had previously paused development on this project because it was too challenging, shifting focus to the Apple Vision Pro instead. However, now that Meta is making progress on their Orion AR glasses (which could be ready for consumers in about three years), Apple may revisit their AR glasses project.
Final Thoughts
Meta’s Orion glasses are exciting, even though they’re still just prototypes. Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, believes they could launch a consumer version in around three years, featuring thinner frames, brighter displays, and a more affordable price.
At the moment, the prototype costs over $10,000 to build, but hopefully, Apple will create something similar soon. AR glasses have long been a dream for Apple, and they shouldn’t let Meta get too far ahead in this space.
