Apple, though not the first to explore the smart glasses market, is poised to make a significant entrance with a strategy that’s distinctly Apple: abandoning one project, pouring resources into another, and hoping consumers will overlook their tardiness. Bloomberg reports that Apple is ramping up development on a pair of smart glasses intended to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban offerings while simultaneously shelving its rumored “lighter” Vision Pro headset.

Apple’s plan involves two types of glasses. The first is a screen-free version, slated for a potential unveiling as early as next year and a release in 2027. These glasses would sport stylish frames equipped with cameras, speakers, and a heavy reliance on voice commands and AI for functionality.

The second, more advanced model features a display integrated into the lenses. Originally planned for 2028, this model is now being expedited to directly challenge Meta’s Ray-Ban Display glasses, which have garnered praise despite their tiny screen. As with most Apple products, these glasses are expected to offer sleek design options, a dedicated custom chip, and a price tag that might make you question whether you actually need glasses.

Meta, Apple’s chief competitor in this space, already has its second-generation Ray-Ban smart glasses on the market, with improved battery life, and Oakley-branded sport models on the way. The Display glasses, despite their small screen, have received glowing reviews.

Meanwhile, Apple’s Vision Pro team is feeling the pinch. The lighter headset version once rumored for 2027 has been put on ice, with staff reassigned to focus on the glasses project instead. However, this doesn’t spell the end for Vision Pro; recent filings suggest a modest refresh of the original headset could arrive by the end of this year.

While Meta has been parading around in its Ray-Bans, Apple has been quietly honing its own frames in the background. But the question remains: is Apple wise to shift its focus from headsets to everyday smart glasses, or are they simply playing catch-up to Meta too late? Would you actually wear AI-powered smart glasses in public, or does the idea still feel too intrusive, regardless of the brand?

We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below, or you can continue the conversation on our Twitter or Facebook pages.

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