A newly shared research update from renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shed light on Apple’s upcoming lineup of head-mounted devices, revealing a detailed roadmap stretching from 2025 through 2028 (and beyond).
According to the report, Apple is gearing up to launch several next-generation Vision series headsets and smart glasses — but not before taking a breather in 2026. “Apple views head-mounted devices as the next major trend in consumer electronics,” said Kuo.
“The company currently has at least seven projects in development, comprising three Vision series products and four smart glasses variants. Five of these products have confirmed development timelines, while two remain TBD.”
Kuo noted that Apple will not release any new XR or smart glasses products in 2026, but has at least five devices with confirmed development timelines across two categories: Vision headsets and smart glasses.
First up is a new Vision Pro headset with an upgraded M5 chip, set to enter mass production in Q3 2025 with limited shipments of 150,000–200,000 units. While specs will remain mostly unchanged, this update aims to sustain market presence and help Apple refine its XR ecosystem.
In 2027, Apple is expected to go mainstream. A lighter and more affordable Vision Air headset will debut, followed by display-less Ray-Ban-like smart glasses that will focus on audio, camera, and AI-powered features. The smart glasses are forecast to ship 3–5 million units in their first year, pushing global shipments for this product category across all brands to over 10 million units.
Looking further ahead, Apple’s second-generation Vision Pro headset with a redesigned form factor and Mac-grade chip is on track for the second half of 2028. The company’s XR glasses with colour displays are also slated for 2028, featuring waveguide optics and critical AI integration.
Apple’s biggest hurdle? Software. While its hardware advantage remains unmatched, developing a robust AI-driven operating system will be key to unlocking the full potential of these devices. Will the tech giant be able to get all its Apple Intelligence ducks in a row by the time its next big wearable is ready for release? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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Who believes Apple's timeline anymore