ultimateimp – Apple is developing several extended reality (XR) devices, with plans to launch up to seven head-mounted products. The first release will be the upgraded Apple Vision Pro, powered by the new M5 chip. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities, Apple aims to begin mass production in the third quarter of 2025. The company expects to ship between 150,000 and 200,000 units in the first year.
Most of the Vision Pro’s specifications will stay the same, except the system on a chip (SoC) upgrade from M2 to M5. The headset remains a niche product focused on XR applications and ecosystem development. Apple also hopes the update will help reduce component inventory. This launch marks the start of a broader Apple Vision lineup, with more XR devices expected in the coming years.
Vision Air and Smart Glasses to Expand Apple’s XR Ecosystem
Apple plans to release the Vision Air headset by the third quarter of 2027. It will feature a new, lighter design, using plastic instead of glass and magnesium alloy materials. This model is expected to weigh 40% less than the Vision Pro. Apple aims to reduce the sensor count while maintaining a flagship iPhone processor to power the device. Reports suggest a significantly lower price tag, ranging from $1,500 to $2,000, compared to the current $3,499 Vision Pro.
In addition to headsets, Apple is working on smart glasses designed to compete with Ray-Ban Meta Glasses. These smart glasses will offer options for different frame and temple materials. They will support voice control and gesture recognition for user interface navigation. Unlike the Vision Pro and Vision Air, Apple’s smart glasses may not feature built-in displays. Instead, they will rely on audio playback, cameras, video recording, and AI-powered environmental sensing.
Apple expects to begin mass production of these smart glasses in the second quarter of 2027. The company forecasts shipping 3 to 5 million units in the first year, making smart glasses the fastest-growing segment among its wearables.
Future XR Glasses and Display Accessories in Development
Beyond the Vision Air and smart glasses, Apple is developing another XR glasses variant expected in the second half of 2028. These glasses will include advanced features such as Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) technology with waveguide optics and a color display. AI functionalities will be central to this product’s design. This XR glasses model will also support voice control and gesture recognition.
Another lower-visibility XR glasses variant is also reportedly in development, with a later production timeline. Apple is exploring ways to enhance its product offerings and expand its XR portfolio in the near future.
Additionally, Apple is working on a display accessory to show content from devices like the iPhone. This accessory will feature Birdbath optics and electrochromic dimming. Originally planned for mass production in the second quarter of 2026, the project is currently on hold due to insufficient competitive advantage. Apple is reconsidering its specifications and market positioning before proceeding.
Apple’s Strategic Vision for XR and Wearables
Apple’s multi-device approach shows its commitment to dominating the XR market. The company targets various price points and use cases, from high-end headsets to lightweight smart glasses. By launching different XR products over the next few years, Apple aims to build a strong ecosystem that blends augmented reality, virtual reality, and AI.
The focus on versatility and new materials reflects Apple’s push for lighter, more comfortable devices. At the same time, the company is balancing innovation with market readiness and production capabilities. Apple’s cautious approach suggests it wants to avoid oversaturating the market while maximizing user experience.
Outlook for Apple’s XR Product Launches
Apple’s roadmap through 2028 shows steady growth in XR and wearable technology. The M5-powered Vision Pro in 2025 will lay the foundation for more accessible XR products like Vision Air and smart glasses. With millions of smart glasses units expected to ship by 2027, Apple could reshape how users interact with technology daily.
As AI and gesture recognition improve, Apple’s XR devices will likely integrate more seamlessly with users’ lives. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality will help it compete against rivals like Meta and others. By focusing on strategic releases, Apple aims to lead the next wave of wearable tech advancements.
