Tech Desk 
Feb 01, 2025
Apple has reportedly halted development of its augmented reality (AR) video glasses project, codenamed N107, which aimed to integrate advanced display lenses into ordinary eyewear, enabling connectivity with a Mac.
The glasses were expected to feature tint-changing lenses, similar to the Vision Pro’s EyeSight, to signal when the user was occupied. Despite their potential as an affordable virtual monitor, the project has been cancelled.
The decision is attributed to difficulties in creating a cost-effective product. Initially designed to connect to an iPhone, the glasses faced power efficiency challenges. Apple later attempted to link them to a Mac, but persistent technical issues during testing prevented successful execution.
The cancellation raises concerns about Apple’s future in augmented reality (AR) and extended reality (XR). The company had already abandoned another AR glasses project in 2023, and reports suggest setbacks for the Vision Pro 2 in favour of a more budget-friendly Vision Pro model. Meanwhile, the current Vision Pro has struggled to gain widespread appeal.
Apple’s rivals are making significant advances in AR and XR. At CES 2025, multiple smart glasses featuring cutting-edge technology were unveiled, alongside the debut of Google’s Android XR. Samsung is developing its Project Moohan headset, while other major firms are also preparing flagship AR and XR devices.
Meta is expected to launch its latest smart glasses by the end of the year, in collaboration with Oakley and Ray-Ban.
