Apple Reportedly Developing Smart Glasses with visionOS and AI Features

Apple Reportedly Developing Smart Glasses with visionOS and AI Features

Apple, despite a lukewarm reception to its Vision Pro headset, is reportedly pushing forward with its ambitions in the augmented and virtual reality space. According to a report by Bloomberg, the tech giant is actively developing multiple concepts for smart glasses, aiming to expand its wearable technology offerings beyond the current XR domain.

VisionOS Adaptation for Smart Glasses

The report suggests that Apple is working on adapting its visionOS, the operating system powering the Vision Pro, to run on future smart glasses. This indicates a strategic move to create a cohesive software ecosystem across its spatial computing devices. The company is exploring two main avenues for smart glasses: those featuring advanced AR optics and simpler models that omit a sophisticated display unit.

Competition in the Smart Glasses Market

Apple's entry into the smart glasses market places it in direct competition with established players and emerging innovators. Meta has already made significant strides with its Orion AR smart glasses concept and the commercially successful Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which integrate cameras and are evolving with AI capabilities. Google is also a key player, with its Android XR platform and reported acquisition of eye-tracking technology company AdHawk Microsystems, signaling a renewed focus on smart glasses.

Apple's Potential Offerings

Beyond XR-focused glasses, Apple is reportedly considering a rival to Meta's Ray-Ban spectacles, suggesting a focus on a more mainstream, fashion-forward wearable. The company is also exploring camera-equipped AirPods, hinting at a broader strategy to integrate advanced sensing and AI capabilities into its entire product ecosystem. This includes leveraging its AI advancements, such as the Apple Intelligence stack powered by OpenAI's GPT, and features like Visual Intelligence, which uses AI to interpret visual data from a user's perspective.

Market Entry and Strategy

While Apple's move into smart glasses is not pioneering, the company's history of refining and popularizing existing technologies suggests a deliberate and potentially impactful approach. The internal program, codenamed "Atlas," involves gathering employee feedback on the market and potential features for smart glasses, indicating a thorough planning process. Given the challenges faced by the Vision Pro, such as its high price point and cumbersome design, Apple is likely to take its time perfecting its smart glasses to ensure they offer a compelling user experience and stand out from the competition.

Key Takeaways:

• Apple's Smart Glasses Ambitions: Apple is reportedly developing multiple smart glasses, including advanced AR models and simpler alternatives.
• visionOS Integration: The company is adapting its visionOS for these future smart glasses.
• Competitive Landscape: Apple faces competition from Meta (Orion, Ray-Ban Meta) and Google (Android XR).
• Broader Wearable Strategy: Apple may also develop camera-equipped AirPods and fashion-focused smart glasses.
• AI Integration: Leveraging AI features like Visual Intelligence and partnerships with OpenAI is a key aspect.
• Market Approach: Apple aims to learn from the Vision Pro's reception and perfect its smart glasses for market success.

Image:

Image Credit: Meta

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This article provides an overview of Apple's reported ventures into the smart glasses market, highlighting the technological advancements, competitive dynamics, and strategic considerations involved.