Apple’s Upcoming Smart Glasses Expected to Launch in 2026, Lacking AR Screen in Initial Model, Follow-Up Version to Feature It

Meta is currently leading the competition in the smart glasses arena, compelling Apple to reallocate its resources from the second-generation Vision Pro to its own pair of spectacles expected in 2026. Notably, the initial version of these glasses will launch without an augmented reality (AR) screen, a feature scheduled for inclusion in the subsequent model.

Developers Have Time to Prepare for Apple’s Smart Glasses

While Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman did not specify the exact month for the announcement of Apple’s smart glasses, it is anticipated that a reveal may occur as early as 2026, with a commercial launch set for 2027. This timeline closely aligns with the rollout of the Apple Vision Pro, designed to ensure developers have ample time to tailor their applications for the new platform.

One of the more disappointing revelations is that the smart glasses will not include an AR screen. Instead, they will facilitate basic functions such as answering calls and capturing photos without needing to access the user’s iPhone. The report remains unclear on whether these glasses will need to be tethered to an iPhone to enhance their functionalities.

Previously, there were concerns about the viability of this iteration, leading Apple to reconsider its approach. It seems likely that the company is aiming for a standalone device rather than one dependent on another product. Given Apple’s advancements showcased through the iPhone Air, expectations are high for the capabilities of the upcoming smart glasses, especially with a preview anticipated next year.

Advanced Lithography in 2026 May Enhance Performance

Apple has reportedly secured over half of TSMC’s initial capacity for its 2nm N2 chips, positioning itself strategically against competitors like Qualcomm and MediaTek. Compared to the existing 3nm N3P technology, the new N2 process offers a performance gain of up to 10% while improving efficiency by 20%.

This technological leap could permit Apple to create smart glasses that are lightweight and sleeker, as the advanced 2nm chip could eliminate the need for extensive thermal management. Just a year ago, achieving iPhone-like performance in such a compact format seemed unattainable, but with TSMC’s cutting-edge lithography, those constraints are likely to be overcome.

Nevertheless, the absence of an AR screen is likely to deter some potential customers, as many users are eager for a heads-up display (HUD) for seamless interaction. While there are hopes for enhancements in the second generation, details regarding the launch timeline for that version have yet to be revealed.

News Source: Bloomberg

Source & Images