### Apple’s Headset and Smart Glasses Strategy: Insights from Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo
In a recent blog entry, prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared an updated projection concerning Apple’s initiatives in the headset and smart glasses sectors. Kuo disclosed that Apple is in the process of creating at least seven head-mounted devices across two separate product lines, with the initial release anticipated in 2025.
#### Apple’s Vision Series and Smart Glasses
Kuo emphasized that Apple views head-mounted gadgets as the forthcoming major trend in consumer technology. The company’s product pipeline encompasses three items within the Vision series and four different versions of smart glasses. Among these, five products have established timeframes, while two still require confirmation.
#### Major Products Under Development
1. **M5 Vision Pro**:
– Kuo expects a revised iteration of the Vision Pro, named the M5 Vision Pro, to commence mass production in Q3 2025. The specifications are anticipated to largely remain the same, with a shipment estimate between 150,000 and 200,000 units by the end of 2025.
2. **Apple Vision Air**:
– The Vision Air, a more budget-friendly version of the Vision Pro, is projected to start mass production in Q3 2027. This variant is said to be 40% lighter than the original Vision Pro, utilizing plastic and magnesium alloys in place of glass and titanium. It will employ a high-performance iPhone processor and feature fewer sensors.
3. **Second-Generation Vision Pro**:
– Kuo also referred to a second-generation Vision Pro, which will showcase a new design and a “Mac-class” processor, expected to begin mass production in the latter half of 2028. This model is forecasted to be lighter and more affordable than its predecessor.
#### Apple Glasses: A Vision for the Future
1. **1st-Gen Apple Glasses**:
– Departing from earlier estimates of a 2026 launch, Kuo now predicts that Apple’s inaugural smart glasses will commence mass production in Q2 2027, with an expected shipment of 3 to 5 million units. These glasses will come with various frame and material choices and will offer capabilities such as voice control, gesture recognition, photo and video capturing, as well as AI-enhanced environmental sensing.
2. **Two XR Smart Glasses**:
– Apple is also developing two models of XR smart glasses, with the first anticipated to begin mass production in 2028. These glasses will integrate gesture and voice control, utilizing cutting-edge display technology.
3. **Display Accessory**:
– A wired display accessory for Mac and iPhone has been placed on hold due to weight concerns but may be reconsidered later. This product was initially slated for mass production in Q2 2026.
#### Long-Term Strategy and Market Implications
Kuo’s report indicates that Apple is strategically positioning itself not only to enter the smart glasses arena but also potentially to lead it with advanced technology. He forecasts that Apple’s entry will significantly boost total market shipments for smart glasses, surpassing 10 million units by 2027.
While competing brands may introduce similar products in the meantime, Kuo believes that these early releases will likely remain specialized due to persistent technological and design hurdles.
As Apple gears up to reveal its cutting-edge head-mounted devices, the excitement surrounding these products continues to escalate. Consumers are left guessing which of these innovative gadgets they would be most eager to acquire.
