When will Apple launch its own smart glasses?

Apple is under pressure. While Meta has long been on the market with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have already sold over two million units, Apple has yet to offer anything comparable in this space. The only thing that exists so far is the high-priced Vision Pro headset – but that's in a completely different league. Now, there are increasing indications that Apple is also working on smart glasses suitable for everyday use. However, you'll have to wait a few more years.

The tech world is watching closely: Meta is leading the way in smart glasses, while Apple is taking its time. According to well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to launch its first smart glasses in series production in the second quarter of 2027 at the earliest. That's still a long way off, especially considering how quickly Meta is moving in this device category. Nevertheless, expectations for Apple are high—and rightly so, because if the company enters the market, it will become a serious competitor.

Apple plans its own smart glasses – but not until 2027

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple Glasses should be ready for market in about two years. Series production is planned for the second quarter of 2027. The goal is to create a device that functions similarly to Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. You should be able to take photos, record videos, and listen to music with the glasses – either via touch gestures or voice control. The operating concept is designed to capture moments hands-free – without having to pull out your iPhone. This will particularly appeal to users who value everyday usability.

No AR display – at least in the first version

Augmented reality isn't one of them (yet). According to Kuo, the first generation of Apple smartglasses won't include an AR display. This may seem surprising at first glance, but it fits with the strategy of first launching a lifestyle product suitable for everyday use before moving toward mixed reality. Meta is currently pursuing a similar strategy, although Meta is planning a model with AR functionality for this year.

Meta is much further ahead – and sells well

The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have been available since September 2023. They come with a 12-megapixel camera, 1080p video recording, two speakers, five microphones, and a touchpad on the right temple. A small LED indicates when you're recording. The glasses last up to four hours on a single charge, and the charging case provides up to 36 hours of additional use. The model starts at $299. The success is impressive: more than two million units have been sold, according to Ray-Ban parent company EssilorLuxottica. This shows that there's a market for such devices—especially when they're stylishly packaged.

Apple could rely on variety

An interesting point: According to Kuo, Apple plans to offer multiple frame and material options. Whether this means a collaboration with an eyewear manufacturer like Ray-Ban or Oakley remains to be seen. Meta has opted for the proven Wayfarer design for its model – a classic eyewear style that has been popular for decades. Apple could either develop its own look or collaborate with established brands.

The Vision Pro remains a niche product

The only wearable device Apple currently offers in the head-mounted segment is the Vision Pro. The starting price is $3,499 (starting at €3,999 in Germany). Since its market launch in February 2024, estimates indicate that only between 500,000 and 700,000 units have been sold. This shows that the market for high-end mixed reality is still small, and price is a real obstacle. In contrast, the smart glasses could become significantly more affordable and thus appeal to a wider audience. Kuo expects 3 to 5 million units to be sold in the first year after launch alone. That would be a major leap for Apple—and a potential mass market.

Apple has missed the boat – yet

The major disadvantage from today's perspective: Apple is late to the game. While Meta is further developing its product and even planning an AR model for 2025, Apple won't release the first version until 2027 at the earliest. That means it's at least four years behind. Whether Apple can catch up depends on how well the final product fits into everyday life and how tightly it is integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

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Late but well thought out: Apple's smart glasses strategy

If you're waiting for Apple smart glasses, you'll need patience. The first model won't arrive until 2027 at the earliest – and likely without AR features. By then, Meta is expected to have released several generations of devices. As always, Apple will take its time to deliver a mature product. Whether that's enough to catch up remains to be seen. One thing is clear: as soon as Apple enters the smart glasses market, things will get serious. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / il21)