Apple’s Vision Pro headset may have taken a momentary backseat, but don’t be fooled—**Apple’s ambitious roadmap** for the future of smart glasses and headsets is brimming with excitement. A recent report by renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reveals that Apple is diligently crafting **seven innovative head-mounted products**, signaling their commitment to leading the burgeoning field of consumer electronics.
Kuo divulged these plans in a detailed blog post, emphasizing that Apple perceives **head-mounted devices** as the “*next major trend*” in the tech landscape. This ambitious strategy encompasses not just **Vision series products**, but also **four distinct variants** of smart glasses.
Vision Pro and Vision Air
Let’s kick things off with the **Vision Pro**. According to Kuo, an upgraded version is set to commence mass production in **Q3 2025**. This refresh will feature only minor improvements, such as an upgraded processor transitioning from **M2** to **M5**, while the remaining specifications will largely remain unchanged.
Fast forward to **Q3 2027**, and the exciting **Vision Air** is set to take the stage. Described as a “*substantially lighter*” headset, it will harness the power of the latest flagship iPhone processor while minimizing the number of sensors. This model promises to use more plastic and less glass, alongside magnesium alloy instead of titanium, resulting in a staggering **40% lighter design**. With an anticipated **lower price point** compared to the hefty **$3,499 Vision Pro**, the Vision Air offers enticing affordability without sacrificing quality.
And for those eager fans awaiting an enhanced Vision Pro, rest assured that Apple has plans for a **new design** featuring a lighter body and a **more accessible price**—though, you’ll have to wait until **the second half of 2028** for this exciting release.
The Next Generation of Smart Glasses
Now, turning our attention to the much-anticipated **Apple smart glasses**. According to Kuo, Apple is gearing up to **mass produce a “Ray-Ban-like”** product by **Q2 2027**. This innovative accessory may not include a display, but similar to the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, they will feature **audio playback, voice control, a camera**, and **AI environmental sensing**. On top of that, Kuo hints at a *gesture recognition user interface*, setting the stage for a more intuitive user experience.
Additionally, get ready for the **“XR Glasses,”** which will boast a LCoS (liquid crystal on silicon) display along with voice control and gesture recognition, making **AI functionality** pivotal for success. Kuo also notes the existence of another variant currently in development, aiming for a later production timeline.
Lastly, while development on a cable-tethered “display accessory” for the Max has come to a halt, there remains a glimmer of hope—it could be revived in the future.
Strategically Deliberate: Apple’s Winning Approach
One crucial takeaway from this comprehensive outline is the understanding that Apple is not launching any major products in these categories for the next two years (the slightly updated Vision Pro hardly counts). Yet, despite this temporary lull, Kuo’s insights indicate that Apple is positioning itself to build a **broad and diverse ecosystem** of head-mounted devices that will unveil in just a few years.
With competitors like **Meta** and Xiaomi—which recently launched its own smart glasses—continuing to forge ahead, Apple must elevate its game to remain a top contender in this vibrant landscape.
