In a recent blog entry, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo provided insights into his revised outlook for Apple’s headset and smart glasses segments. He asserts that the tech giant has at least seven head-mounted devices in the pipeline, including one planned for release in 2025.
As Kuo states:
Apple regards head-mounted devices as the next significant trend in consumer electronics. The company is currently developing at least seven projects, including three products from the Vision series and four variants of smart glasses. Five of these items have confirmed production timelines, while two remain to be determined.
Apple Vision Pro: specification update in 2025, Vision Air in 2027, 2nd-generation Vision Pro in 2028
- M5 Vision Pro: Kuo anticipates that an updated M5 Vision Pro model is on track for mass production in Q3 2025. He mentioned that other specifications will stay the same, projecting shipment figures between 150,000 and 200,000 through the end of 2025.
- Apple Vision Air: The anticipated Vision Air, a more affordable counterpart to the original Vision Pro, is expected to start mass production in Q3 2027. Kuo mentioned that it will be 40% lighter than the original model, utilizing plastic and magnesium alloy instead of glass and titanium. It will also include a high-end iPhone processor and fewer sensors.
- 2nd-gen Vision Pro: Kuo indicated that a second-generation Vision Pro is set to feature a new design and a “Mac-class” processor, with an expected mass production date in the second half of 2028. He noted that it will be more affordable and considerably lighter than its predecessor.
Apple Glasses: not before 2027, two XR glasses in progress, ‘display accessory’ on hold
- 1st-Gen Apple Glasses: Contrary to earlier forecasts suggesting a 2026 release, Kuo predicts that Apple’s first attempt at competing with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses will enter mass production in Q2 2027, with anticipated shipments of 3 to 5 million units.
Kuo also mentioned the availability of multiple frame styles and materials. Key features will include voice control, gesture recognition, photo and video capturing, AI-enhanced environmental sensing, and audio functionality (unspecified if built-in or reliant on AirPods).
- Two XR smart glasses in development: Kuo reports that Apple’s first pair of glasses featuring a built-in display is projected to enter mass production in 2028, equipped with gesture and voice control. The display will employ Liquid Crystal on Silicon and waveguide technology.
Kuo also highlighted that Apple is working on a second display-equipped model, although specifics on its features and release schedule remain uncertain.
- Display accessory: Kuo mentioned that efforts related to a wired accessory for the Mac and possibly the iPhone have been temporarily halted due to weight issues but may be revisited later. This product was planned to utilize Birdbath optics for its display technology and was set to begin mass production in Q2 2026.
Whether intentional or a matter of necessity, Apple is adopting a long-term perspective
A notable insight from Kuo’s report is that he anticipates Apple will not only enter the smart glasses market but also expand its market potential significantly.
He believes the company could surpass competitors with innovative technology, even if its initial offering arrives years after others have established themselves in what may become a saturated market:
“Apple’s entry is forecasted to elevate total market shipments for this category beyond 10 million units by 2027, signaling a significant emerging trend.“
Furthermore,
“Before Apple unveils its display-enabled smart glasses, several brands are likely to launch similar products to secure their positions in the market early. However, due to the ongoing technological and design advancements needed, these offerings will probably remain niche products in the coming two years.”
Are you looking forward to any of these products? Which one would you purchase? Share your thoughts in the comments.
