Apple is reportedly developing four distinct concepts for a revamped Vision Pro headset, with a potential release in late 2028 or early 2029. This development comes as the company shifts its focus toward smart glasses, aiming for a 2027 launch.
Exploring New Design Directions
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s Vision team is considering four different designs for the next-generation Vision Pro headset, codenamed N224. One of these concepts involves offloading internal components to an external module, similar to Meta’s upcoming VR glasses, which are expected to launch next spring. In Meta’s design, the external computing module houses the battery and main processor and can be clipped to the user’s waist. Gurman notes that this module is about the same size and weight as the current Vision Pro’s battery pack but features a grippy exterior.
Despite exploring this modular approach, senior Apple decision-makers reportedly consider the external puck concept a “poor user experience” and prefer a design closer to an all-in-one system. This preference aligns with Apple’s historical emphasis on integrated, user-friendly designs.
Strategic Shift Toward Smart Glasses
While the Vision Pro headset remains a focal point, Apple is increasingly directing its resources toward the development of smart glasses, with an anticipated release in late 2027. This shift is evident in the reassignment of former Vision Products Group members to the smart glasses project and other initiatives, such as enhancing Siri’s capabilities. The smart glasses are expected to feature AI integration and may not include an integrated display at launch, positioning them as a more accessible entry point into augmented reality experiences.
Implications for the Vision Pro Line
The focus on smart glasses has led to significant changes within the Vision Pro team. Reports indicate that Apple has laid off approximately 100 employees from the Vision Products Group, with cuts affecting various departments, including device security, audio engineering, and visionOS development. These layoffs suggest a strategic realignment as Apple concentrates on its smart glasses initiative.
Despite these developments, Apple has not entirely abandoned the Vision Pro line. The company continues to explore new headset concepts, indicating a commitment to the mixed-reality space. However, any new Vision Pro-style device is not expected to materialize for at least two more years, given the current focus on smart glasses and other projects.
What to Watch Next
As Apple continues to develop its smart glasses, expected to launch in late 2027, the future of the Vision Pro headset remains uncertain. The company’s strategic shift suggests that the next-generation Vision Pro may not arrive until late 2028 or early 2029. Consumers and industry observers will be closely watching Apple’s progress in both the smart glasses and Vision Pro lines to understand the company’s direction in the mixed-reality market.
