Sharp Tech with Ben Thompson

(Preview) Apple Abandons Its Smart Glasses, Google as the Yellow Pages, LLMs and the Overton Window

9 snips
Feb 3, 2025
A deep dive into Apple's surprising decision to abandon its smart glasses project reveals the complexities of integrating new tech with existing devices. The discussion touches on the struggles of generative AI in sports statistics and its acceptance in media. Internal dynamics and market factors influencing product development are also scrutinized, particularly how Apple's choices may reshape the tech landscape, especially for competitors like Meta. The evolving strategy towards practical mobile devices leaves listeners questioning the future of augmented reality.
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INSIGHT

iPhone Limitations

  • Apple likely canceled its smart glasses project due to the iPhone's limitations.
  • The glasses drained too much power and processing, impacting the iPhone's performance.
INSIGHT

Go Big or Go Home

  • Apple's "go big or go home" mindset might explain the Vision Pro's lukewarm reception.
  • They seem to prioritize high-volume products, neglecting niche but potentially valuable markets.
ANECDOTE

Hugo's Prediction

  • Hugo Barra predicted Apple's smart glasses' challenges.
  • He accurately pointed out the power and processing strain on the iPhone.
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