Apple Inc. (AAPL) is reportedly stepping up its game to challenge Meta Platforms Inc. (META) in the exciting realm of mixed reality and smart glasses. Apple is working on a more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset, its foray into the world of mixed reality. This cheaper version, expected to launch next year, could significantly boost sales.
But Apple isn’t stopping there. According to Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman, the company is also developing a second-generation Vision Pro, slated for a 2026 release, and even smart glasses, designed to go head-to-head with Meta’s Ray-Bans. These initiatives signal a commitment to competing in a market increasingly dominated by Meta, a trend that has become a source of concern for Apple.
Apple’s current Vision Pro headset has faced criticism for its hefty price tag, substantial weight, and tendency to overheat. The cheaper version, priced around $2,000, is expected to address these concerns and potentially double the Vision Pro’s sales.
The move to develop smart glasses, however, suggests a broader strategy to challenge Meta’s dominance in the emerging field of wearable technology. Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, has seen success with its affordable and lightweight Ray-Ban smart glasses. They’ve also recently unveiled new AI features and holographic Orion glasses, a significant step toward their vision of a future filled with augmented reality.
While Apple’s focus on privacy is well-known, they previously rejected a proposal from Meta to integrate its AI chatbot, Llama, into iPhones. This decision highlights the competitive tension between the two tech giants and underscores Apple’s commitment to maintaining control over its ecosystem.
Apple’s efforts to catch up in the VR and AR space reflect a shifting landscape in the tech world. With Meta steadily pushing forward with its vision of a future where technology seamlessly blends with our reality, Apple is now actively pursuing a similar path. Only time will tell how these companies will compete and ultimately shape the future of how we interact with the world around us.
