The first iteration of Apple’s AR glasses would have been designed in such a manner that these spectacles would be tethered to an iPhone to offload some of the computing. Unfortunately, the company was previously reported to have axed development work on this product, instead shifting its focus towards the standalone pair of its smart glasses that would offer more utility as it would not require a secondary machine to provide complete functionality. Preparing this device will likely take a few extra years, but Apple is prepared to sacrifice more time because it does not want another failure on its hands.
Company executive in charge of Apple’s AR glasses is being cautious as he does not want to risk a failed launch
After the Apple Vision Pro, the obvious big move for the California-based giant would be to transition to a pair of smart glasses, as these would not only provide the same functionality as the bulky and fatigue-inducing headset, but people would look less obnoxious when wearing them. However, having a vision is one thing, and making that vision into a reality is another hurdle. 9to5Mac has reported on Mark Gurman’s latest ‘Power On’ newsletter that the new head of Apple’s Vision Products Group, John Ternus, is being extra careful regarding the development of the company’s AR glasses, suggesting that it will take a few years before this product is commercially available.
“In any case, it seems like the new boss of Apple’s Vision Products Group, John Ternus, doesn’t want another flop on his hands. So he is going to take his time and be cautious. I’m told that Apple’s long-term goal of standalone AR glasses remains intact, and the company will keep working on underlying technology — like screens and silicon — to help make such a device more feasible.”
Ternus’ ‘slow and steady’ approach is warranted because irrespective of how impressive the Apple Vision Pro is, it failed to garner mass appeal, with estimated statistics of 500,000 units shipped in 2024 proving that technological prowess can only go so far to ensure that the product will be successful. As for the AR glasses, we reported previously that these will likely run a modified version of visionOS, but even if the company nailed the software, there is one major hurdle standing in the way of mass production; the hardware.
To prevent overheating and allow the smart spectacles to deliver above-average battery life, Apple needs a chip that can provide the same performance as an A18 or an A18 Pro while consuming one-tenth of its power. Naturally, Apple’s foundry partner TSMC has been unable to develop a manufacturing process that is this efficient, so when the technology is ready, we will probably see the AR glasses in action. When that day arrives, we are going to be just as excited as our readers.
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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