There have been many rumors about Apple developing augmented reality (AR) glasses for some time now, but so far, this product has not appeared, although Apple has launched Vision Pro - a device that has many similarities with AR glasses but in a larger and bulkier form.
While companies like Meta and Snapchat have shown off impressive AR glasses prototypes, Bloomberg writer Mark Gurman says Apple is still three to five years away from perfecting its approach to the product.
According to Gurman's Power On newsletter, Apple is still in the process of developing smart glasses with integrated augmented reality, but the product will not be released in the near future.
To create a complete AR glasses, Apple needs to overcome a series of challenges such as miniaturizing hardware components, designing fashionable products, providing long enough battery life for effective use, and developing high-resolution screens without reducing the multimedia experience.
Right now, Apple could achieve these elements in an expensive AR headset, but it’s unlikely to deliver a consumer-friendly product. Even companies like Snapchat and Meta, which have demonstrated AR headsets, aren’t ready to launch commercial products.
Meta’s AR glasses are just a prototype, while Snapchat’s are only available to developers. Neither company has announced a price, presumably because it wouldn’t appeal to consumers.
The author also shared his personal experience with Snapchat’s AR glasses last month. While the product left a strong impression, it still had some limitations such as a narrow field of view and a somewhat bulky size - which did not meet Apple’s design standards.
It's understandable that Apple isn't ready to launch AR glasses, but it's also inevitably disappointing for tech enthusiasts.
