Apple has officially cancelled its development of augmented reality (AR) glasses, a project that had generated significant anticipation. This decision, reported by Mark Gurman, a prominent Apple insider, was made this week and marks a notable shift in Apple’s strategy regarding AR technology[1][3][5].
Project Overview
The AR glasses were designed to resemble regular eyewear but were intended to feature built-in projectors capable of displaying information, images, and videos directly in the user’s field of view. Unlike the standalone Vision Pro headset, which has struggled with sales due to its high price point of $3,499, these glasses were aimed at providing a more accessible option for everyday users[1][3][5].
Intended Features
- Tint-Changing Lenses: The glasses were expected to have lenses that could adjust their tint based on user activity.
- Device Pairing: Initially planned to pair with iPhones, the project shifted to pairing with Macs after issues arose with battery drain and processing power[1][3].
Challenges Faced
The cancellation stems from several technical challenges and cost issues that Apple encountered during development. The company struggled to find suitable technology that could be integrated into the glasses at a reasonable price. Internal reviews reportedly showed poor performance of the product, leading to dissatisfaction among executives and ongoing changes in design requirements[1][3][5].
Market Implications
With Apple’s retreat from the consumer AR glasses market, Meta has less competition. Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses have already sold over one million units, and an augmented reality version is slated for release in 2027—coinciding with the timeframe when Apple’s glasses would have launched[3][5]. This shift allows Meta to solidify its position in the smart glasses market as Apple reassesses its approach to AR technology.
Although Apple may revisit the concept in the future, for now, it appears to be stepping back from consumer-focused AR initiatives following this cancellation.
Citations:
[1] https://www.gizchina.com/2025/02/01/apple-cancels-development-of-ar-glasses/
[2] https://www.idropnews.com/rumors/has-apple-terminated-its-ar-glasses-project/111268/
[3] https://www.bolnews.com/technology/2025/02/apple-cancels-development-of-ar-glasses/
[4] https://www.tomsguide.com/news/apple-has-cancelled-its-ar-glasses-report
[5] https://www.androidheadlines.com/2025/01/apple-reportedly-cancels-its-ar-glasses-project.html
[6] https://www.t3.com/news/apple-s-ar-glasses-haven-t-been-cancelled-here-s-why
[7] https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/smart-glasses/apple-ar-glasses-for-mac-reportedly-cancelled-heres-why
[8] https://www.xrtoday.com/augmented-reality/apples-ar-smart-glasses-postponed-indefinitely-report-says/
