Apple’s ambition to create augmented reality (AR) smart glasses is far from over, despite recent reports suggesting the project was shelved. While Bloomberg initially reported that Apple had paused development, a more recent update clarifies that the company remains committed to this long-term goal. Apple continues to invest in the core technologies required to bring this vision to life, including cutting-edge displays and powerful silicon.
The initial report of Apple abandoning its AR glasses project seemed surprising, particularly given the growing momentum of smart glasses as a new computing platform. The smart glasses market is experiencing a surge of innovation, surpassing even phones and laptops in foundational development. Companies like RayNeo, Xreal, and TCL are pushing boundaries with integrated display glasses that unlock immersive experiences. Meanwhile, Razer and Amazon offer Bluetooth-connected glasses focused on communication and audio.
Startups are also driving innovation in the smart glasses space. Halliday Glasses, for example, are challenging conventional display designs with their “invisible” optical module. Even Realities G1 glasses seamlessly integrate optical and display lenses for a minimalist information display.
Larger companies are also making strides. Meta’s Orion smart glasses, recently showcased by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, utilize holographic technology to overlay 2D and 3D content onto the user’s real-world view. Google has also offered glimpses of its AR glasses development over the past few years.
Apple’s own smart glasses project, codenamed N107, reportedly featured advanced projectors capable of displaying information, images, and videos in the user’s field of vision, similar to the AR glasses being developed by Meta and others. These prototypes also included lenses with automatic tint adjustment.
Apple’s continued development of the underlying technology reinforces their commitment to delivering a compelling AR smart glasses experience. The company is focused on achieving the ideal balance of comfort, performance, and immersive capabilities. While a release date remains uncertain, Apple’s pursuit of AR smart glasses suggests a future where augmented reality seamlessly integrates with our daily lives.
