Brief

Apple Eyes New AR Headset Amid Vision Pro Uncertainty

Apple is reportedly working on a new, lighter AR headset as doubts linger over its Vision Pro, while Meta launches a cheaper, lighter VR glasses model.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:46:04 GMT

Apple is reportedly developing a new augmented‑reality headset, codenamed N224, after doubts have grown over the company’s Vision Pro launch. Bloomberg reports that Apple is exploring two designs: one that places the computing components in a puck to cut size and weight, and another that uses lighter materials while keeping the same basic form factor. The company has yet to decide which, if any, of the designs will move forward, and the new device may not appear until 2027 or 2028.

Apple continues to publicly support the Vision Pro, with incoming chief executive John Ternus saying it is “the beginning of a long journey” and comparing it to the early days of personal computers. In a Canal+ interview, Ternus highlighted the headset’s use in surgery and film production and expressed confidence in its future.

Meta has responded by unveiling its own lightweight AR headset, the VR Glasses, priced at $1,300 – about a third of the Vision Pro’s price – and weighing significantly less. Meta’s device has attracted criticism for alleged privacy concerns, earning the nickname “pervert glasses.”

Apple is also reported to be working on smart glasses similar to Meta’s offering, though details on features remain unclear.

Key facts

Apple is developing a new AR headset codenamed N224 (independent.co.uk)
Bloomberg reports two design options: a puck‑based computing unit and a lighter material version (independent.co.uk)
Apple CEO John Ternus said the Vision Pro is “the beginning of a long journey” (independent.co.uk)
Meta launched VR Glasses, priced at $1,300 and lighter than Apple’s Vision Pro (independent.co.uk)
Meta’s VR Glasses have been nicknamed “pervert glasses” due to privacy concerns (independent.co.uk)

Background

Apple’s Vision Pro, released in 2024, received positive reviews but faced criticism for its high price and limited experiences. The company has been rumored to be working on a cheaper, lighter version, but several designs have reportedly been abandoned. Meta’s recent launch of lighter VR glasses adds competitive pressure.

Timeline

2024-09-01 — Apple released Vision Pro headset
2026-09-18 — Apple launched iOS 27 with Apple Intelligence
2026-09-25 — Apple released Games stop‑motion ad

Why it matters

The development of a new AR headset could reshape Apple’s strategy in the high‑end AR market and influence competition with Meta’s lighter, cheaper offering.