Apple's Smartglasses: Mobile mode on the go, full mode on the Mac?
There is new information about the technology behind Apple's upcoming computer glasses. Apparently, just the 2nd generation comes with a display—and is special.
Ray-Ban display glasses from Meta: Apple's big competitor is coming very soon – according to Meta.
(Image: Meta)
Apple is apparently planning devices with multiple operating modes for its upcoming smartglasses. According to a Bloomberg report, a “later version” of the devices, which will then have an integrated display, will switch depending on the type of use. Allegedly, a fully-fledged visionOS will then run on the hardware, but only if a Mac is nearby and the glasses have been paired with it. When on the move, the smartglasses are supposed to switch to a “lighter, more mobile-friendly” mode with a customized interface. They are then supposedly connected to an iPhone.
First generation still without a screen
However, the first generation of Apple Smartglasses will still come without a screen. Instead, Apple is orienting itself on what we have known for several years from Meta with its Ray-Ban smartglasses. However, the Facebook parent company had announced a Ray-Ban display with an integrated screen on one side for this year. In response, Apple is said to have stepped up its efforts to develop a device with a screen and put a lighter-vision headset on hold for now.
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The first Apple smartglasses could come onto the market in 2026. Displayless control is to be achieved via Siri, Apple's voice assistant that has fallen behind the competition. It remains to be seen whether this will work as the company envisages. Meta uses its AI system for the previous displayless glasses but also installs it in the Ray-Ban display to simplify control. There is also a strap that can read hand and finger movements.
Vision Pro not (yet) dead
According to Bloomberg, Apple is said to have reorganized its Vision department meanwhile. As mentioned, the lighter, cheaper “Vision Air” has been shelved and those involved are now working on smartglasses. Nevertheless, the Vision Pro is likely to be developed further, and a second version with slightly more power is to be released this year. As usual, Apple will pursue a “multi-tier approach” with several product series.
The work on visionOS and the ecosystem behind it is therefore not lost, as it will also be used by the smartglasses. The Vision Pro remains impressive in terms of display quality and operation, but competitors such as Meta are clearly catching up. Interestingly, Samsung is also getting involved in the headset market. Surprisingly, its “Project Muhan” is modeled on the Vision Pro, even though the latter is considered a flop.
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