For those looking forward to getting their hands on Apple's upcoming AR-powered Apple Glass, there is disappointing news. According to a new report, the launch has been postponed and Apple will instead focus its efforts on developing a low-cost version of the augmented and virtual reality-enabled headset.

According to a Bloomberg report (opens in new tab) by Apple tipster Mark Gurman, there are technical challenges that have forced the company to postpone development of Apple Glasses. Initially, the lightweight device was rumored to launch as early as late 2024 or early 2025, after the launch of the Apple VR/AR headset. But instead, those plans have reportedly been put on hold.

The mixed reality headset already seems to be facing a number of setbacks, with multiple reports of delays dating back nearly two years. As a result of component shortages, the COVID-19 outbreak in China, and other issues in the supply chain, the tech industry has been struggling for the past few years, but it is not entirely clear why these delays occurred. Apple has dealt with those issues well, but even Tim Cook is not entirely immune to that level of disruption.

It goes without saying that Apple has very high standards when it comes to its products, especially design. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also reports that Apple wants to have a complete set of hardware and software available for the headset, which means that developers will have time to contribute to the library of apps. All of this will take time to accomplish.

However, while VR/AR headsets are said to feature innovative technologies, they are still variations on technologies that have been around for some time. After all, VR headsets are nothing new, and the Meta Quest Pro already seems to offer many of the same features as Apple's rumored device. The Apple Glass is entirely new and has a number of technical challenges.

One of the reasons it has taken so long to develop a VR/AR headset is to ensure that it is light and comfortable enough to wear at all times while maintaining the power and system requirements necessary to function as stand-alone hardware.

Apple Glasses takes that problem to new extremes, and Apple has the challenge of pushing all augmented reality technology into ordinary glasses. This is no small feat, and even Meta has reportedly had to scale back its AR glasses ambitions.

Therefore, reports that Apple is shifting its focus to a cheaper version of a mixed reality headset make a lot of sense. Other reports have conflicting ideas about the price of this device, which could reportedly cost as much as $3,000. This price could be attributed to the advanced hardware inside, which is rumored to include a "Mac-grade" M2 processor, a high-resolution display, and more than 10 cameras and sensors.

We have previously heard rumors that a cheaper version of this headset is being planned, which makes a lot of sense. Reducing its price and making the headset more accessible is the most logical thing for Apple to do next. Especially if Apple Glasses are still a few years away from practical application.

Apple's VR/AR headset is expected to be available later this year, after a launch event that will probably take place in March.