Apple AR Glasses: Custom visionOS in Testing, Launch Expected by 2027

Apple is steadily advancing its augmented reality (AR) ambitions, working tirelessly on AR glasses despite significant challenges and a distant launch timeline. While the Apple Vision Pro’s lukewarm reception may have cast doubt on the company’s AR strategies, Apple remains committed to bringing its vision to life. Reports now indicate that the tech giant is testing a customized version of visionOS designed specifically for these glasses, which are expected to debut no sooner than 2027.

Apple’s Vision for AR Glasses: Tethered to the iPhone Before Going Standalone

According to Mark Gurman’s “Power On” newsletter, Apple’s AR glasses are being developed in a secretive facility in Santa Clara, California. This team is focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies—including micro-OLED displays and advanced sensors—to create an innovative AR experience that could one day succeed the Apple Vision Pro. However, progress has been slower than expected due to staffing reductions resulting from layoffs in 2023.

The current iteration of Apple’s AR glasses is likely to be tethered to an iPhone, reducing the device’s computational requirements and allowing for a more compact design. This tethered approach will serve as a precursor to a fully standalone product, which remains years away. The biggest technical hurdle remains creating a chip capable of matching the performance of an iPhone while consuming only a fraction of the power—a critical requirement due to limited space for batteries in wearable devices.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the primary obstacles in developing AR glasses is energy efficiency. Apple is exploring ways to maximize the performance of components while minimizing power consumption to extend battery life. To address this, Apple’s engineers are conducting extensive studies to determine which features resonate most with potential users. Additionally, the company is reportedly refining visionOS, adapting it to suit the unique requirements of AR glasses.

Competitive Landscape: How Apple Stacks Up

Apple’s efforts in AR technology are part of a broader race among tech giants. Meta and Samsung are working on their own AR and mixed-reality devices, aiming to capitalize on this emerging market. Meta’s Quest lineup and Samsung’s rumored AR glasses have set the stage for fierce competition, but Apple’s focus on a seamless hardware-software ecosystem could give it an edge.

What’s Next for Apple’s AR Glasses?

While Apple has not provided an official timeline, industry insiders suggest that the earliest possible launch for the AR glasses is 2027. This aligns with Apple’s meticulous approach to product development, ensuring that its AR glasses deliver a polished and innovative experience. Until then, we can expect incremental updates and further refinements to visionOS, which will likely shape Apple’s future in AR and mixed reality.

Stay tuned as we continue to monitor developments on this exciting journey. Apple’s AR glasses might still be years away, but they promise to redefine wearable technology when they finally arrive.