Apple Vision Pro Faces Competition: Meta Prepares Its First Augmented Reality Headsets
Differences Between Mixed, Virtual, and Augmented Reality
Meta has been in the virtual reality game for some time with its Meta Quest headsets. However, Mark Zuckerberg’s company is pushing the boundaries further by developing its first headsets that truly embrace augmented reality (AR). This move significantly intensifies the competition with Apple’s Vision Pro, which operates on mixed reality (MR) technology.
A report by Mark Gurman in Bloomberg revealed that Meta is working on augmented reality headsets, citing anonymous sources familiar with the project. While Meta has dabbled in AR through its smart glasses, these products haven’t fully exploited the technology’s potential. The team aims to change that by developing a new product line internally referred to as “Hypernova.”
Meta’s AR device is set to compete directly with Apple’s Vision Pro, utilising genuine augmented reality technology. Users will be able to run basic software applications, view notifications, and browse through multimedia galleries—all without losing touch with their physical surroundings, which remain visible at all times.
The Vision Pro’s Viral Legacy
Last year, viral videos of people using Apple’s Vision Pro on the streets captivated the public. These futuristic images, shared widely on social media, showcased how users could have a screen in front of their eyes without posing significant safety risks. Although Apple has yet to launch the Vision Pro in Spain, many were amazed by its innovative features. Meta’s entry into the AR space is expected to further democratise this technology, according to industry analysts.
However, Gurman’s sources have stated that Meta’s project is still far from completion. It remains in development and is not expected to launch before 2027. Based on leaks published in Bloomberg, Meta plans to price its headset around $1,000, a fraction of Apple’s $3,499 offering.
Differences Between Mixed, Virtual, and Augmented Reality
The distinctions between mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) lie in the level of immersion they offer. The way these devices blend the physical and digital worlds depends on the type of technology brands decide to develop.
Virtual Reality (VR): Meta’s Quest line has primarily focused on VR, which creates fully digital, immersive environments. Users are entirely cut off from the physical world, with headsets employing screens to project 360-degree simulated environments.
Augmented Reality (AR): AR overlays digital elements—such as holograms, graphics, or information—onto the real world. This involves the use of transparent or semi-transparent lenses that allow users to see their physical surroundings while adding digital content. While Meta already offers smart glasses in collaboration with Ray-Ban, the company’s upcoming AR headsets are expected to take the technology to the next level.
Mixed Reality (MR): MR combines both VR and AR, allowing users to interact with digital and physical objects simultaneously. MR headsets can also completely block out the real world if desired. This is the technology behind Apple’s Vision Pro. Although Apple’s offering provides more capabilities than Meta’s existing VR headsets, Meta’s upcoming AR devices are expected to prioritise affordability.
Meta’s AR Aspirations
Despite being in its early stages, Meta’s AR project signals a clear intention to make advanced augmented reality more accessible to the masses. While Apple’s Vision Pro remains a premium option with extensive features, Meta’s focus on affordability may attract a broader audience. Only time will tell how this competition shapes the future of AR technology.
