The rise of smartphones has been a remarkable phenomenon since their introduction in the 1990s, but leading figures like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Tim Cook are diverging on whether these devices will continue to dominate or become obsolete.
Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, envisions augmented reality (AR) as the next major platform after smartphones. The company has invested heavily in AR and VR technologies, with plans for its Orion AR glasses prototype to launch in 2027. This device will allow users to interact with 3D holograms, control apps, and communicate using voice, gestures, and eye movements.
In contrast, Musk believes that brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) could make smartphones obsolete. Neuralink’s BCIs are developing implants that let users control technology with their thoughts, although concerns over data security and transparency linger.
Meanwhile, Apple CEO Tim Cook remains confident in the smartphone’s future, citing advancements in AI features like those found in the iPhone 16 as evidence of its continued relevance. He sees AR and wearables as enhancements rather than alternatives to the smartphone’s central role in everyday life.
The differing perspectives on these technologies underscore a deeper divide over the future of personal tech. As BCIs and AR glasses continue to evolve, one thing is certain: they will redefine how we connect with technology for generations to come.
Source: https://eurweb.com/2025/smartphone-future-musk-zuckerberg-cook