Apple's Smart Glasses Could Become Its Next Health Device

Apple is reportedly considering turning its upcoming smart glasses and headsets into health and fitness devices, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his "Power On" newsletter, Gurman reveals that the idea originated during the early stages of Vision Pro development. One of the features considered was an integrated version of Apple's Fitness+ service, which would have used the headset's body-tracking sensors to monitor users' form during workouts.

However, this project was ultimately abandoned due to technical limitations and the headset's weight, which made it uncomfortable for workouts. Apple has since incorporated this ambition into its smart glasses project, following its shift away from Vision Pro. Gurman draws a parallel to the transformation of AirPods into a hearing aid system, suggesting that the glasses could eventually be equipped with sensors to track movement data and enable fitness tracking.

However, this feature won't be included in the glasses' initial release next year; instead, Apple plans to gradually introduce health capabilities over several years. Gurman notes that Apple's Vision Products Group is seeking a "strategic product design leader" to help develop the future of health, well-being, and fitness experiences across vision products.

The ideal candidate should have experience in developing and validating digital health or fitness products, as well as familiarity with sensor-driven experiences. Gurman argues that this hiring move confirms Apple's intention to position its glasses alongside AirPods and the Apple Watch as health platforms. The company is expected to debut its first smart glasses later next year, potentially at WWDC.