Since the launch of the Vision Pro, Apple has been exploring ways to bring AR and VR experiences to a wider audience. With two new Vision Pro models already in development, it now seems Apple is setting its sights on Meta’s smart glasses market and is already working on a new chip to power its own pair.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is making headway on a custom chip that will power its potential smart glasses. The chip is being developed based on Apple Watch processors, chosen for their low power consumption. To enhance energy efficiency, Apple has stripped out certain components. The report notes that this chip is designed to “control multiple cameras,” which will “scan the surrounding environment” and “assist users” through AI-driven capabilities.
Mass production of Apple’s smart glasses chip could begin by late 2026 or early 2027. The company is expected to partner with its long-time supplier, TSMC, for manufacturing. If all goes according to plan, Apple’s take on smart glasses could arrive within the next two years.
In addition, Apple is also working on a pair of smart glasses with augmented reality capabilities, similar to Meta’s Orion glasses unveiled last year. With Meta finding success in the non-AR smart glasses space, Apple appears poised to enter the market while simultaneously developing its own AR glasses.
Smart glasses aren’t the only innovation Apple has in the pipeline. The company is also focusing on integrating cameras into AirPods and Apple Watches, along with developing new chips for these devices. Additionally, Apple is working on SoCs such as the M6 (Komodo), M7 (Borneo), and Sotra chips for Mac, as well as the M5 chip for Pro models of iPad and MacBook.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s smart glasses? Do you think they’ll stand up to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses? Share your views in the comments below.
