Apple’s AR Smart Glasses Set for 2026 Release Featuring microLED Technology

Apple is set to release AR glasses featuring microLED technology by 2026, following in the footsteps of Ray-Ban Meta. It remains to be seen whether the company can achieve profitable production.

New Horizons for Apple

Meta’s striking Orion AR glasses demonstrations have reignited interest in augmented reality eyewear. Insider information from the elusive @Jukanlosreve hints that Apple may launch its own AR glasses by 2026, featuring advanced microLED technology.

Apple continues to invest in Micro LED technology.

1. They are developing Micro LED for their AR glasses, aiming for mass production by 2026.

2. Plans are also underway to incorporate Micro LED into the Apple Watch Ultra, projected for a 2026 release.

— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) October 5, 2024

A Promising Yet Costly Technology

MicroLED technology combines LED brightness with OLED’s deep blacks, making it superior to existing display technologies. However, its complex and expensive production process is why it’s not yet seen in smaller gadgets.

Increasingly Persistent Rumors

The Apple Watch Ultra is also rumored to feature a microLED display, according to the same source. Regarding the Apple Glasses, rumors have been swirling for years. The previous estimate for a launch window was 2027, suggesting Apple might have accelerated development, possibly influenced by the success of Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses.

What Future Awaits the Apple Glasses?

Similar to the whispers of an iPhone Flip, it’s been a while since news of an AR version of Apple Glasses surfaced. However, following Meta’s reveal of Project Orion last month, interest in smart glasses is higher than ever. While a year is a significant timeframe, if mass production starts in 2026, the actual release could be delayed until 2027 or later.

Despite uncertainties, it appears Apple is far from finished with augmented reality eyewear. The key question remains how the brand will manage to market this cutting-edge technology profitably and on a large scale.