Apple has unexpectedly stopped an ambitious project to develop augmented reality glasses. The planned device was supposed to function as smart glasses with an integrated display but be connected to a Mac. This approach turned out to be problematic, which is why the company has now stopped development.
There has been speculation about Apple glasses for years. While Meta already has AR and VR products on the market with the Quest and Microsoft with the HoloLens, Apple held back for a long time with its own solutions. Instead, the company focused on the Vision Pro, a high-end VR headset that was launched in 2024. But there was another project running alongside it - simple augmented reality headsets that would connect to other Apple devices. This concept has now been discarded.
Apple cancels development of AR glasses
According to a report According to Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple has finally given up on developing smart glasses with a Mac connection. Several insiders familiar with the project confirmed that the device would have had a normal glasses shape, but would have been equipped with an integrated screen. However, the processing of the AR content would not have taken place in the glasses themselves, but via a connected Mac. This dependency made the product impractical for everyday use. Most users expect augmented reality glasses to be mobile and flexible. A wired solution contradicts this claim. Apple had originally planned to connect the glasses to the iPhone, but this concept could not be implemented either.
State-of-the-art features, but the concept didn’t work
Another problem was the technological implementation. Apple was working on several innovative features, including special MicroLED screens and advanced projectors that would project content directly into the user's field of vision. The glasses were also supposed to have self-tinting lenses that would adjust depending on the usage situation. This would signal, for example, whether a person is open for conversation or engrossed in a digital task. In the end, however, too many compromises meant that the device did not meet the desired standards. Apple therefore decided to abandon the project.
Which technologies could be retained?
Although the glasses will not appear in their planned form, that does not mean that all the technology developed is lost. Apple continues to invest in augmented reality and could use some of the innovations for future products. Technologies that could continue to play a role include:
- MicroLED displays for better and lighter AR glasses
- Advanced AR projectors for a more realistic display of digital content
- Self-tinting lenses for improved user interaction
Apple will likely focus on finding a more everyday solution – possibly standalone AR glasses without a cable connection.
Apple stops AR glasses project but sticks to the vision
Apple has finally ended the project of wired AR glasses because they did not meet the requirements for modern, flexible use. However, the idea of integrating augmented reality into slim glasses remains the company's focus. Instead, Apple will probably develop other AR products that could play a larger role in the future. The Vision Pro is already a first step in this direction. It remains to be seen whether and when real Apple Glasses will appear. (Photo by Unsplash+ / Aakash Dhage)
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