The Apple Vision Pro has taken the tech world by storm, unveiling an exciting era of augmented reality. As tech enthusiasts eagerly awaited its release, the big question was whether Apple would introduce a set of smart glasses, akin to traditional spectacles, or venture into the realm of full-fledged virtual reality headsets. Both possibilities had been the subject of numerous rumors and speculations. In this article, we explore Apple’s latest patent filings, the potential development of more conventional smart glasses, and the exciting prospect of pre-ordering this groundbreaking technology.
Apple’s Vision Pro and the Spatial Computer: The Vision Pro is, without a doubt, a significant stride towards a more immersive tech world. Apple has described it as a “spatial computer,” emphasizing its capabilities as a self-contained computing device. This groundbreaking gadget hints at Apple’s determination to redefine the boundaries of augmented and virtual reality.
The US Patent Office Filing: A recent filing with the US Patent Office adds another layer of intrigue to Apple’s AR/VR plans. The patent filing reveals that Apple continues to explore the development of more traditional smart glasses, which would work in synergy with an iPhone. These smart glasses would feature a digital crown on one of the stems, serving as a heads-up display for notifications, music control, and augmented reality projections on the lenses. In the filing, these are referred to as “head-mounted display/smart glasses (HMD).”
Apple Smart Glasses Pre-Order Possibilities: One of the most exciting prospects for Apple enthusiasts and tech aficionados is the possibility of pre-ordering the next evolution in augmented reality. While no official pre-order announcements , the rapid development and patent filings indicate that this could be on the horizon.
Apple’s Competitors and the Dual-Product Strategy: Apple’s approach is not entirely unprecedented. Meta, one of its main competitors in the consumer AR/VR space, offers both the Meta Quest VR headset and Ray-Ban Stories AR glasses. Apple seems confident about achieving something more ambitious with the Vision Pro compared to Meta’s Quest headsets. With smart glasses, it’s highly likely that Apple will leverage the power of the iPhone to support the device, drawing from its experience with the Apple Watch as a second-screen companion accessory. This strategy could provide a more cost-effective alternative to the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro headset.
Future Prospects: While it’s common for Apple to file patents regularly, the timing of this particular filing is noteworthy. It emerged just three months after the Vision Pro’s announcement, suggesting Apple’s ongoing commitment to developing a set of smart glasses that seamlessly complements the iPhone. The detailed drawings and descriptions in the patent indicate a more tangible and less abstract approach compared to many other filings.
Potential Product Line: Apple may envision a future where the Vision Pro headset occupies the high-end of its AR/VR product lineup, while more accessible smart glasses become an iPhone accessory. This dual-product approach could bridge the gap between different customer segments and lead to a convergence of the two product lines in the years ahead.
Release Date and Price: As for the release of Apple Glasses, substantial rumors have been scarce, indicating that their launch is likely a few years away. Analysts have varying predictions, with some suggesting a potential release date in 2026. The price is expected to be more accessible than the Vision Pro headset, thanks to its reliance on iPhone processing, which reduces complexity and costs.
Apple Smart Glasses Features: The Apple Glasses are poised to bring information from your phone directly to your field of vision, displaying texts, emails, maps, and games. Apple also has plans for third-party apps and a dedicated app store. Recent patents suggest advanced features, such as retinal projection technology, which ensures sharp, in-focus images, and the ability to change backgrounds seamlessly during use.
Apple’s journey into the world of AR and VR is poised to reshape the way we interact with technology. While we may have to wait a bit longer for the Apple Glasses to hit the market, the Apple Vision Pro headset gives us a glimpse of what’s to come. Expect innovative features, sleek designs, and a new era of augmented reality when Apple Glasses finally become a reality. Stay tuned for pre-order announcements, as the future of technology is closer than ever.