Apple Bets Big on Smart Glasses, Pivots from Vision Pro to Challenge Meta

As of last week, Apple Inc. (AAPL) saw its shares gain 0.35%, marking a four-day streak of upward momentum with an increase of 1.41% over this period. The past week's performance recorded a 1% rise, and year-to-date, the shares are up by 3.35%, positioning the tech giant's market capitalization at $3.82 trillion. This performance continues to reflect investor confidence despite the fluctuating tech market.

Reports indicate that Apple has momentarily suspended its upgrade plans for the Vision Pro headset to prioritize developing smart glasses that can compete with Meta Platforms' offerings. Insiders disclosed that Apple had initially planned to release an affordable, lightweight headset, codenamed N100, by 2027. However, resources have been redirected towards accelerating the development of these smart glasses.

Apple is reportedly working on at least two smart glass models. One, known as N50, is designed to work with iPhones but lacks an independent display. Apple aims to launch this product as soon as next year, with a broader release in 2027. Another model in development includes a display feature, likely to challenge the Meta Ray-Ban Display, pushed forward with an original 2028 launch timeframe.

These new smart glasses are expected to offer voice interaction and AI functionality, supported by an upgraded Siri system projected for release in March next year. Price points for these glasses are anticipated to be significantly lower than the $3,499 starting price of the Vision Pro.

The recent unveiling of Apple's iPhone 17 series has drawn significant attention, especially given the strong demand despite initial skepticism about feature upgrades. The robust sale outlook is particularly notable for the standard and Pro Max models, suggesting a substantial pent-up demand from long-time users.

Indications from the market reflect the high demand for the iPhone 17 through extended delivery times compared to previous models. The heightened anticipation for these devices aligns with broader market speculation that Apple stands to benefit significantly from the burgeoning AI industry.

In the wearable tech landscape, Apple has intensified its focus on smart glasses, with new strategies in place to contend against competitors like Meta. This shift comes amidst a backdrop where Apple's Vision Pro did not meet sales expectations due to its high price and heavy design. Consequently, CEO Tim Cook has amplified efforts in the smart glasses market, identifying it as a pillar of Apple's future ecosystem.

This strategic pivot highlights Apple's resilience and adaptability in the tech landscape, steadily aligning with the shifting consumer preferences and competitive pressures. As the company navigates these developments, investor sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, with expectations of continued market leadership in both hardware and AI-driven innovations.