Apple’s Second-Generation Glasses Will Run on Two Systems — Here’s How It Works

Apple is continuing to develop its smart-glasses line, aiming to create a more practical and affordable alternative to the premium Vision Pro. According to a recent report, the second-generation Apple Glasses will be able to run two different operating systems depending on which device they’re connected to.

As Mark Gurman notes in his Power On newsletter, when paired with a Mac the glasses will run the full version of visionOS — the same platform that powers Vision Pro — granting access to the complete set of mixed-reality capabilities. When connected to an iPhone they will switch into a lighter mode with a simplified interface and reduced performance requirements.

The initial model, slated for 2026, won’t include its own display, which could limit user appeal. The follow-up generation, expected in 2027, is said to offer a full XR experience and substantially better battery life.

Apple is also testing multiple connection methods — both wired and wireless. While a cable provides the lowest possible latency, the company is leaning toward a wireless solution similar to how AirPods Pro 3 pair with an iPhone using the H2 chip — fast and practically without lag.

Should testing fall short of expectations, the launch may be postponed. Apple believes the real revolution will come when the glasses are completely standalone devices with their own display, processor, and operating system — effectively an “iPhone for the face.”

Source: iXBT.games