Apple is apparently working on at least seven head-mounted devices, with one set to arrive later this year. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared an updated forecast roadmap for the company’s headset and smart glasses market, which includes three products for the Vision series and four smart glasses variants. Additionally, five of these devices already have confirmed development timelines.
According to Kuo, an upgraded version of the Apple Vision Pro which uses an M5 processor is scheduled for mass production in the third quarter of 2025. He also stated that aside from the chip upgrade, the device specifications will remain unchanged. Shipments of the product are estimated to be between 150,000 and 200,000 by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, a cheaper version of the Vision Pro, the Vision Air, will reportedly only enter mass production in Q3 2027. The headset will weigh 40% lighter than the original, use plastic and a magnesium alloy instead of glass and titanium alloy, as well as feature fewer sensors. Kuo also mentioned that it will be equipped with the company’s latest flagship iPhone processor.
As for Kuo’s prediction for the second generation of the Vision Pro, the device is expected to be mass produced in the second half of 2028. It will also reportedly be cheaper and lighter, with a new design. Moreover, it is believed that the headset will use a “Mac-grade” processor.
On the other hand, the first pair of Apple smart glasses might arrive later than anticipated, as Kuo claims that they will only enter mass production in Q2 2027. The Ray-Ban competitor will also allegedly come with different options for frame and temple materials. Core features include audio playback, camera, video recording, and environmental sensing powered by AI.
Kuo’s report also mentioned two XR glasses in development, which will be equipped with displays. The first model will allegedly feature gesture and voice control, and use Liquid Crystal on Silicon and waveguide technology for the screen. Mass production is expected to begin in 2028.
As for the second model, details on its features and expected launch are unclear. Finally, Kuo noted that work on the display accessory for the Mac and iPhone is currently on hold, but could resume later.
(Source: Ming-Chi Kuo via 9to5Mac)
