Apple’s Ambitious Plans for Standalone AR Glasses Delayed; Tethered Version Canceled to Avoid Market Failure

Apple’s journey into augmented reality (AR) eyewear has seen significant shifts, initially aiming for a pair of smart glasses that would connect to an iPhone to mitigate computing demands. However, reports indicate that the company has stalled this development in favor of a more advanced standalone device. This next-generation product promises enhanced functionality without reliance on external hardware, reflecting Apple’s commitment to delivering a successful product rather than rushing to market.

Strategic Caution in AR Glasses Development

As Apple looks to capitalize on the momentum from its Apple Vision Pro headset, the transition to smart glasses emerges as a key strategy. These glasses are envisioned to offer similar features to the headset while providing a more discreet and comfortable user experience. Yet, transitioning from concept to reality remains a formidable challenge.

According to 9to5Mac, Mark Gurman highlighted that John Ternus, the new leader of Apple’s Vision Products Group, is adopting a cautious approach to AR glasses development. This strategy suggests a delayed launch, perhaps spanning several years, as Ternus focuses on ensuring a successful introduction to the market.

“In any case, it seems like the new boss of Apple’s Vision Products Group, John Ternus, doesn’t want another flop on his hands. So he is going to take his time and be cautious. I’m told that Apple’s long-term goal of standalone AR glasses remains intact, and the company will keep working on underlying technology — like screens and silicon — to help make such a device more feasible.”

Ternus’s deliberate pace comes after the lukewarm reception of the Apple Vision Pro, which struggled to achieve widespread popularity. Projections suggest that only 500, 000 units will ship in 2024, serving as a reminder that even cutting-edge technology does not guarantee success in the consumer market. For the upcoming AR glasses, there are already indications that they will operate on a refined version of visionOS, yet hardware challenges loom large.

To achieve optimal performance and battery longevity in the smart glasses, Apple must engineer a chip that can compete with the power of an A18 or A18 Pro while consuming significantly less energy. Unfortunately, Apple’s manufacturing partner TSMC is yet to produce a process that meets these efficiency demands. Thus, until these technological advances materialize, a commercial launch of the AR glasses remains on the distant horizon. When that day arrives, anticipation will undoubtedly grow among both developers and consumers.

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