Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Apple Halts Cheaper Vision Pro to Fast-Track AI Smart Glasses

Bloomberg reports the shift reflects pressure from Meta’s Ray-Ban lineup and a plan to lean on an upgraded Siri to power phone‑paired eyewear.

Overview

  • Apple has paused development of a lighter, lower-cost Vision Pro and reassigned staff to smart glasses projects, according to Bloomberg.
  • At least two glasses are in the works: a display-less model codenamed N50 that pairs with iPhones and a separate version with an integrated display.
  • People familiar with the plans say Apple is targeting an unveiling of the N50 as early as 2026 with broader availability in 2027, and it is accelerating the display variant previously aimed at 2028.
  • A modest Vision Pro refresh still appears imminent, with an FCC filing for model A3416 and reports pointing to an M5 chip and continued Wi‑Fi 6 support.
  • The pivot follows tepid Vision Pro uptake and growing momentum for Meta’s Ray‑Ban smart glasses, with Apple expected to rely on rebuilt Siri and Apple Intelligence features slated for 2026.