Meta’s recent demonstration of its Orion AR glasses has sparked renewed interest in augmented reality eyewear, and now a new rumor suggests that Apple might soon enter the AR market as well. According to a tip from trusted leak source @Jukanlosreve (via Wccftech), Apple is planning to release its own augmented reality glasses by 2026, incorporating advanced microLED technology into the design.

MicroLED technology is known for combining the brightness advantages of traditional LED displays with the deep blacks of OLED, creating a more vivid and superior image quality. However, microLED is difficult and costly to manufacture, which is why it has not been seen in smaller consumer electronics like smartphones or wearable devices so far. Apple’s continued interest in microLED, despite its challenges, is significant as the company aims to push the boundaries of display technology.

In addition to the AR glasses, the source also suggests that Apple may incorporate microLED displays into future models of the Apple Watch Ultra. This development aligns with previous expectations that Apple could be focusing on new display technologies for its wearables in the coming years.

The timeline for Apple's AR glasses has fluctuated in previous rumors. Originally, reports indicated that Apple might release its AR glasses by 2027, but it now appears that the company may have expedited its development process. This could be a response to the growing interest in AR technology, especially in light of Meta’s success with its Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which combine fashion with augmented reality features. Meta’s success in this space may have influenced Apple’s decision to prioritize the development of similar technology.

Last year, there were indications that Apple had delayed its AR glasses indefinitely, opting to shift its focus to developing a more affordable virtual reality headset instead. The delay raised questions about Apple's commitment to AR hardware. However, this new tip suggests that Apple’s plans for AR glasses are still on track, with a potential release coming sooner than expected.

Apple’s previous mixed reality device, the Apple Vision Pro, has already shown the company's ambition in the AR/VR space. While the Vision Pro has garnered attention for its advanced features, it has also been criticized for its high price tag and relatively low sales volume. This could indicate that Apple is now shifting its focus toward developing more accessible and affordable AR technology, likely in the form of these microLED-based AR glasses.

The integration of microLED displays into Apple's wearable technology could offer significant advantages in terms of brightness, energy efficiency, and image quality. However, the high manufacturing costs of microLED may still pose a challenge for widespread adoption, especially if Apple aims to produce these devices at competitive prices. The rumored 2026 release date allows Apple time to refine the technology and reduce costs, making these devices potentially more affordable for consumers.

While details about the exact features and specifications of Apple’s AR glasses remain scarce, the integration of microLED technology would position them as a major player in the growing AR market. If Apple can successfully incorporate this display technology into a lightweight, user-friendly form factor, its AR glasses could redefine how consumers interact with augmented reality.

TECHRADAR