In a recent interview with Wired's Steven Levy, Apple CEO Tim Cook shed light on the company’s vision for augmented reality (AR) and how its flagship Vision Pro headset might evolve into a more compact and accessible form. Cook acknowledged that the Vision Pro represents a critical stepping stone in Apple’s journey toward wearable AR glasses, signaling a broader ambition to transform the way people interact with technology.
When discussing the future of AR, Cook emphasized that the Vision Pro is just the beginning of a gradual progression in form factors. He hinted at Apple’s ultimate goal of developing lightweight AR glasses that integrate seamlessly into everyday life. This trajectory aligns Apple’s strategy with competitors like Meta, whose AR efforts include the Quest line and experimental AR glasses aimed at mainstream adoption.
“AR is a huge deal,” Cook remarked. “With Vision Pro, we’ve achieved the most advanced technology we’ve ever developed, and perhaps the most advanced in the world when it comes to solving complex electronics challenges. But this is only the start of what’s possible.” While Cook avoided offering a specific timeline for Apple’s AR glasses, his comments underscored the company’s commitment to refining and miniaturizing the technology over time.
Cook’s remarks also subtly addressed the competition. Meta’s AR initiatives have drawn attention with their focus on creating more affordable and consumer-friendly devices. While Apple’s Vision Pro is positioned as a premium, high-performance product, Cook’s acknowledgment of future form-factor improvements suggests Apple aims to eventually compete in the same space as Meta’s AR glasses, blending cutting-edge technology with practical design.
Cook’s comments point to a future where AR glasses could become as ubiquitous as smartphones, redefining how users interact with the digital and physical worlds alike.
