Here's When to Expect Apple's Answer to Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Apple's Smart Glasses: A Long-Awaited Competitor to Meta Ray-Bans
Apple is planning to enter the smart glasses market with a device designed to rival the popular Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. However, don't expect to see them on store shelves anytime soon. Industry analysts predict a launch date several years in the future.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a respected Apple supply chain analyst, mass production of Apple's smart glasses is anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2027. His analysis suggests that these glasses will offer a range of features comparable to the Meta Ray-Bans. Users can expect capabilities such as photo and video recording, music playback, and control options including touch and voice commands. The overall aim is to capture moments effortlessly without having to pull out your phone.
Features and Design: What to Expect from Apple's Smart Glasses
Kuo's report indicates that Apple plans to provide a variety of frame styles and materials for its smart glasses. Whether Apple will collaborate with an established eyewear brand like Ray-Ban or Oakley remains unknown. In contrast, Meta's smart glasses are currently available with three distinct Ray-Ban frame options, including the timeless Wayfarer design.
One significant difference between the initial offerings from Apple and Meta is the inclusion of augmented reality (AR) displays. Apple's first-generation smart glasses, according to Kuo, will not feature built-in AR displays. This contrasts with Meta's plans; next-generation Meta Ray-Bans with AR capabilities are expected to launch later this year, putting Apple considerably behind in this specific area of technology.
A Detailed Comparison: Apple's Future Glasses vs. Meta Ray-Bans
The current Meta Ray-Bans boast impressive specifications. These include a 12-megapixel camera capable of 1080p video recording, dual speakers for audio, five microphones for enhanced sound capture, a touchpad on the temple arm for intuitive control, and an LED indicator to show when recording is active. Battery life is estimated at up to four hours on a single charge, extendable to 36 hours with the included charging case.
Released in September 2023, Meta Ray-Bans have already achieved significant market success. EssilorLuxottica, the owner of Ray-Ban, reported sales exceeding two million units by February, demonstrating considerable consumer interest in this type of device.
Apple's current offering in the head-mounted display market is the Vision Pro, a premium device with a starting price of $3,499. Sales figures for the Vision Pro, which launched in February 2024, are significantly lower, estimated to be between 500,000 and 700,000 units at most. Kuo anticipates that Apple's smart glasses will achieve far greater market penetration, projecting shipments of 3 to 5 million units or more in 2027.
The Long Wait and Competitive Landscape
The projected 2027 release date for Apple's smart glasses presents a significant challenge. The smart glasses market is dynamic, with competitors rapidly innovating and releasing new products. By the time Apple's glasses launch, the competitive landscape may look very different.
Apple's considerable delay highlights the complexities of developing truly innovative and consumer-friendly smart glasses. While the company's brand recognition and technological prowess are undeniable assets, the extended development timeline raises questions about its ability to keep pace with the rapidly evolving market. Success will depend not only on the final product’s quality and features but also on its timely arrival in a highly competitive space.
The wait for Apple’s smart glasses underscores the challenges involved in merging sophisticated technology with comfortable, stylish eyewear. The potential for success is undeniably high, given Apple’s track record and customer base. However, the extended development timeline and the rapid pace of innovation in the market leave room for uncertainty regarding Apple's final positioning in this exciting new segment of wearable technology.
This article, "Here's When to Expect Apple's Answer to Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses" first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
from MacRumors
-via DynaSage
