Apple’s Future Vision: Smart Glasses, Vision Air & Second-Gen Headsets In The Works
Apple is revving up its ambitions in the wearables space with a full-fledged lineup of smart glasses and next-generation Vision headsets, according to a new forecast by renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The company is reportedly working on at least four smart eyewear products and multiple new versions of its Vision headsets, including a lighter Vision Air.
Smart Glasses to Take on Ray-Ban Meta
Apple’s first smart glasses, slated for mass production in the second quarter of 2027, are being designed to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban collaboration. These glasses will reportedly feature built-in cameras, video recording support, speakers, a voice-controlled interface, and AI-powered features. Kuo expects Apple to ship between 3 to 5 million units of these first-gen glasses in 2027 alone.
In a move aimed at attracting a wider user base, Apple plans to offer multiple material finishes for both the temples and frames. The entry is also likely to energise the broader smart glasses market, with overall shipments in the category projected to hit 10 million units that year.
Additionally, Apple is reportedly developing advanced extended reality (XR) glasses with LCoS (liquid crystal on silicon) displays, gesture and voice control features. These are expected to begin mass production in Q2 of 2028.
A Display-Only Glasses Variant Gets Paused
Apple also had a “display accessory” version of the glasses in development, designed to work as a companion to devices like the iPhone.
Originally scheduled for a 2026 release, this product is now on hold as Apple refines its design and functionality.
Vision Headset Line Expands With Air & Revamped Pro
On the Vision headset front, Apple is gearing up to begin production of an updated Vision Pro powered by the M5 chipset as early as Q3 2025, with 150,000–200,000 units planned. While 2026 will see a quiet period for the Vision lineup, big developments are on the horizon for 2027 and beyond.
Among the standout devices is the Vision Air, expected in the third quarter of 2027. This model is tipped to be around 40% lighter than the current Vision Pro, weighing in at approximately 600–650 grams. Built with a magnesium alloy frame, plastic optics, and an “iPhone-grade processor,” the Vision Air is clearly being positioned as a more accessible, consumer-friendly option.
The Vision Air will have “fewer sensors” than its premium sibling, allowing Apple to keep costs down and widen appeal.
Looking ahead to 2028, Apple is expected to debut a second-generation Vision Pro headset. This model will feature a redesigned chassis, an updated M-series chip, a slimmer build, and — crucially — a more approachable price.
With multiple smart eyewear products and lighter, more affordable Vision headsets in the pipeline, Apple appears set to redefine how consumers interact with digital content in the years to come.
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