Apple Smart Glasses could Offer two Distinct Display Modes
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA – Apple’s long-rumored augmented reality glasses are reportedly being developed with the capability to switch between two distinct display modes: a standard mode and a “breakthrough” mode leveraging in-lens display technology, according to recent reporting. The dual-mode approach aims to balance functionality, battery life, and cost for the highly anticipated device.
The glasses, currently codenamed “Sight,” are envisioned as a premium AR headset positioned as a successor to existing smart glasses and a potential competitor to devices like the Meta Quest 3. While details remain scarce,the development suggests Apple is prioritizing a sophisticated visual experience,possibly offering both a consistently-on,lower-power standard mode for everyday use and a higher-fidelity,more immersive mode powered by micro-LED technology embedded directly within the lenses.
This in-lens display technology, sourced from TSMC, is expected to deliver substantially improved image quality and brightness compared to conventional waveguide displays used in many current AR headsets. However, the complexity and cost of manufacturing micro-LED displays are considerable, leading Apple to explore the dual-mode strategy. The standard mode woudl likely utilize a less power-intensive display technology to extend battery life during typical use cases like messaging or navigation.
Sources indicate Apple has faced challenges in balancing performance, weight, and thermal management during development. The glasses are expected to feature a custom R1 chip alongside the M4 chip,dedicated to processing sensor data and enabling low-latency AR experiences. While a 2025 release was previously speculated, current estimates point towards a potential launch in late 2026, contingent on overcoming remaining engineering hurdles and finalizing software integration with visionOS.