The way we consume content right now is by holding or sitting in front of a device, like a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This has been the way for decades, but many companies are challenging that notion with devices like headsets and smart glasses. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple wants in, as the company has seven head-mounted products in the pipeline.
Upcoming Apple head-mounted products
Apple is no stranger to headsets. The company announced the Vision Pro at WWDC 2023, and it was released a year later. However, it was far from a commercial success. The hefty price tag combined with the lack of an ecosystem meant that customers had little reason to own one.
But Apple isn’t letting the Vision Pro’s failure deter it. According to notable Apple insider Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on multiple head-mounted products. However, it might take several years for all of them to become a reality.
The first model we can expect is the next-gen Vision Pro. According to Kuo, Apple will update the Vision Pro with an M5 chipset. It will enter mass production in Q3 2025 and will be released towards the end of the year. Then, next up is the Vision Air. Mass production of this headset is set for Q3 2027, and it will be followed by the second-gen Vision Pro in 2028.
Those are Apple’s headsets. As for Apple’s smart glasses ambitions, Kuo says that Apple is working on a Ray-Ban-like pair of glasses. Mass production is expected in Q2 2027 with a release in the same year. Apple is also rumored to be working on a pair of XR glasses for 2028. Last but not least, there is a rumored display accessory, which is now set for mass production in Q2 2026.
The race for smart headsets and glasses
Apple isn’t alone in trying to push headsets and smart glasses into the market. Companies like Snap and Meta have recognized the potential much earlier, with Meta’s Ray-Bans being one of the more popular smart glasses available today. The company has recently expanded its partnership with Oakley for a more sporty look.
Samsung and Google are also keen to step into the space with Project Moohan, powered by Google’s Android XR platform. So far, it feels like Apple is lagging behind considerably. Hopefully, by the time the company brings something newer to the market, it won’t be too late for them.
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