Apple's Next Gen Smart Glasses May Pull Different Operating Systems Depending on Connected Device
The second-generation Apple smart glasses could provide a truly versatile mixed-reality experience by running different operating systems depending on which device they are connected to: this way, the spectacles could take advantage of a Mac's processing for a full experience or have an efficient user interface when connected to an iPhone.
Dynamic OS Full Power with Mac, Efficiency with iPhone
As per a recent Power On newsletter from Mark Gurman, the combination of a Mac and smart glasses could power the full version of visionOS to provide a compelling interface for mixed-reality display applications.
In comparison, an iPhone connection would trigger much less processing-intensive "light-powered" operating system options aimed at mobile functions that conserve battery life and focus on essentials, instead of a fully fledged set of features.
Tethering Dilemma and the Ultimate Aim
For Apple, a primary challenge lies in how this device will connect. Wired connections are great for low latency, but such a solution is impractical for users. More likely, Apple aspires to bridge the glasses to a Mac wirelessly-so similar to how AirPods link to iPhones through custom silicon made by Apple.
As per this report, Apple has concerns regarding the success of its tethered product and may have even canceled this iteration. Its end goal remains a completely stand-on-their-own smart glasses with all the internals needed for a complete experience without any reliance on another device.
Context First Gen vs. Second Gen
This discussion relates to the second-generation smart glasses, expected to arrive around 2027. The first-generation version may be a more basic device "without screen", thus making the second edition a far more attractive and functional proposition for a consumer.
The development here is still at the conceptual phase, and Apple may delay indefinitely if the project does not meet its internal milestones. More updates will be given as information surfaces.
