Apple has put development of its augmented reality glasses, "Apple Glasses," on hold after its mixed reality headset, Bloomberg reports. Work on the product has been postponed due to technical difficulties.
Rumor has it that Apple was planning to develop lightweight augmented reality glasses modeled on Google Glass. The glasses would overlay digital information over the real world, rather than offering an immersive virtual experience like an AR/VR headset. However, Apple was unable to develop the necessary hardware to produce a lightweight wearable with the performance of an iPhone and sufficient battery life. Apple originally planned to launch Apple Glasses in 2023, but then pushed the project back to 2025. But now the launch has been postponed "indefinitely." Apple has also scaled back work on the device, so Apple Glasses won't be coming to market anytime soon.
“Apple Glasses” is no longer in focus
Bloomberg reports that Apple considers AR glasses as a product that could one day replace the iPhone. According to Bloomberg Some Apple employees don't believe Apple will ever launch AR glasses. Most of Apple's AR/VR group is working on the mixed reality headsets Apple plans to produce. However, some are still researching the technology for future AR glasses. Instead of developing augmented reality glasses, Apple is now focusing on developing a more affordable mixed reality headset that will appeal to a wider audience. The first AR/VR headset, due to launch later this year, will cost around $3,000, so Apple plans to offer similar features at a more affordable price in the future. (Photo by peshkov / Bigstockphoto)
