Apple's Focus Shifts To 'Affordable' Smart Glasses And Smart Home Devices

Apple iPhone 16 lineup's launch, without integrated Apple Intelligence, appears to be just another minor upgrade, somewhat garnering criticism for the tech giant. However, reports suggest that Apple has several intriguing products in development, in a bid to help the tech giant catch up with rivals Amazon, Google, and Meta.

Apple's Vision For 'Affordable' Smart Glasses

According to a report by iClarified, quoting Mark Gurman, Apple is eyeing a 2027 launch for its smart glasses. These wearables are expected to be more lightweight, cost-effective, and comparable to Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have outperformed Apple's $3,500 Vision Pro in terms of market success. Apple aims to leverage the substantial investment made in the Vision Pro's visual intelligence technology, applying it to understand users' surroundings and provide relevant information across a broader range of products.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy Ring India Launch Soon, Pre-Orders Now Open

Apple's Vision Products Group is developing several new devices, including a more affordable version of the Vision Pro, slated for release early next year. This model is expected to retail for around $2,000, featuring a less powerful chipset and more economical materials. The company anticipates that this lower-priced option will at least double the sales figures of the original Vision Pro.

Additionally, a second-generation Vision Pro is projected to hit the market in 2026, further expanding Apple's presence in the mixed reality space.

Apple's Foray Into Smart Home Segment

Beyond wearables, Apple is intensifying its efforts in the smart home segment. Over the next two years, the company plans to prioritise the development of a new homeOS operating system, a smart display, and a high-end robotic tabletop device. These initiatives aim to help Apple regain ground in the smart home market, where it has lagged behind Amazon and Google.

One of the first major releases in this category is expected to be a smart display, offering features such as TV+ streaming, FaceTime capabilities, web browsing, and integration with apps like Calendar and Notes. This affordable device is designed to be placed throughout the home, similar to the HomePod mini.

A more sophisticated tabletop device is also in development, with an estimated price point of around $1,000. This premium product will focus on home security, high-quality videoconferencing, and advanced media playback. It will feature a screen mounted on a swiveling robotic arm, distinguishing it from competitors' offerings.

Central to Apple's strategy is the integration of artificial intelligence. The company plans to use Apple Intelligence to enhance home automation and provide precise control over apps, devices, and media. This AI integration is expected to enable the tabletop device to understand its environment, recognize users, and respond to their actions and speech.