Apple’s Vision Pro headset has recently taken a backseat, yet a new report reveals that Apple is pursuing an ambitious initiative with seven head-mounted devices currently in the works. As per Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple views head-mounted gadgets as the forthcoming major trend in consumer electronics, with plans for three products in the Vision series and four variations of smart glasses.

Vision Pro and Vision Air

Reports indicate that Apple is working on an enhanced Vision Pro headset, expected to enter mass production in the third quarter of 2025, which will feature a processor upgrade from M2 to M5. In the third quarter of 2027, Apple intends to launch “Vision Air,” a lighter headset operating on the latest iPhone processor. Vision Air is designed with fewer sensors, more plastic, less glass, and will utilize magnesium alloy instead of titanium, achieving a weight reduction of over 40% compared to Vision Pro, which will facilitate a lower price point than the $3,499 Vision Pro.

Additionally, Apple is developing a reimagined, lighter, and more affordable Vision Pro, anticipated to debut following the latter half of 2028.

Apple Smart Glasses

Regarding the speculated Apple smart glasses, Kuo notes that Apple plans to initiate mass production of a “Ray-Ban-like” model in the second quarter of 2027. These glasses will lack a display but will incorporate audio playback, voice control, a camera, and AI environmental sensing, featuring a gesture recognition interface.

Moreover, the “XR Glasses” are projected to include an LCoS display, voice control, and gesture recognition, with AI capabilities being vital for their success. An additional variant is also under development with a more extended timeline.

Kuo further remarks that Apple has halted the development of a “display accessory” connected to the Max, although it may resume progress in the future.

Slow and steady wins the race?

The main takeaway is that Apple is not set to release significant new products in these categories for another two years, with only a minor Vision Pro update anticipated. However, if Kuo’s insights hold true, Apple aims to establish a varied ecosystem of head-mounted devices in the coming years. Competitors like Meta and Xiaomi, which have recently introduced their smart glasses, are currently ahead, thus prompting Apple to intensify its efforts.