Apple's Secret AR/VR Army 7 Headsets Coming Soon?!

Kuo: Apple's Ambitious Head-Mounted Device Roadmap Unveiled

Apple is betting big on the future of head-mounted displays, and renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has provided a detailed glimpse into the company's plans. According to Kuo's latest report, Apple is actively developing at least seven head-worn devices, spanning two distinct product families, with the first expected to arrive as early as 2025.

This ambitious roadmap signals Apple's conviction that head-mounted devices represent the next major frontier in consumer electronics. The current projects are reportedly divided into the Vision series and smart glasses variants:

• Vision Series: Three distinct products are in the works.
• Smart Glasses: Four different models are under development.

Kuo emphasizes that timelines are confirmed for five of these projects, while the remaining two are still to be determined. Let's dive into the specifics of what Apple is cooking up.

Apple Vision Pro: Refinements and New Iterations

The groundbreaking Vision Pro is set to receive several updates and variations over the next few years:

• M5 Vision Pro (2025): An updated version with the M5 chip is expected to enter mass production in Q3 2025. Other specifications are expected to remain the same, with projected shipments between 150,000 and 200,000 units by the end of the year.
• Apple Vision Air (2027): A more affordable sibling to the Vision Pro, the "Vision Air," is anticipated to begin mass production in Q3 2027. This model is rumored to be 40% lighter than the original, utilizing plastic and magnesium alloy instead of glass and titanium. It will reportedly feature a "highest-end" iPhone processor and a reduced sensor array.
• 2nd-Gen Vision Pro (2028): A completely redesigned second-generation Vision Pro is slated for mass production in the second half of 2028. Kuo suggests it will boast a "Mac-class" processor, a lighter design, and a more competitive price point.

Apple Glasses: Entering the Smart Glasses Arena

Apple is also venturing into the smart glasses market, aiming to compete with the likes of Meta's Ray-Ban offerings:

• 1st-Gen Apple Glasses (2027): Kuo predicts mass production to begin in Q2 2027, with estimated shipments of 3-5 million units. These glasses are expected to offer multiple frame and material options, along with features such as voice control, gesture recognition, photo and video recording, AI-powered environmental sensing, and audio capabilities (potentially relying on AirPods).
• XR Smart Glasses (2028): Apple's first glasses with a built-in display are projected to enter mass production in 2028. They will also feature gesture and voice control, with displays utilizing Liquid Crystal on Silicon and waveguide technology.
• Additional Display-Equipped Model: A second display-equipped smart glass model is also under development, although details on its features and launch timeline are currently scarce.

The "Display Accessory" Pause

Kuo also mentions that Apple had been working on a cable-bound "display accessory" designed for Macs and iPhones. However, this project has been temporarily paused due to weight-related challenges. While it could be revived in the future, its initial timeline for mass production in Q2 2026 is no longer accurate.

Apple's Long-Term Strategy

Kuo's report highlights Apple's commitment to the long game, even if it means entering the market later than its competitors. He believes that Apple's superior technology and design could allow it to leapfrog the competition and significantly expand the smart glasses market. He estimates that Apple's entry could push total market shipments for this category beyond 10 million units in 2027, signaling a major emerging trend.

Kuo suggests that while other brands may release similar products sooner to establish an early presence, these offerings are likely to remain niche due to ongoing technological and design limitations. Apple is poised to make a significant impact when it finally enters the arena.

Apple's methodical approach and commitment to innovation suggest that the company is carefully laying the groundwork for a future where head-mounted displays are integral to our daily lives. Whether it's the refined Vision Pro or the sleek Apple Glasses, Apple's vision for the future of wearable tech is certainly ambitious and exciting.

What are your thoughts on Apple's upcoming head-mounted devices? Which one are you most excited about? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!

Tags: Apple headset, Vision Pro, Smart glasses, Apple Vision Air, Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple roadmap, M5 Vision Pro, Wearable tech, Apple devices, Consumer electronics

Source: https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/29/apple-working-on-7-head-mounted-products/