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Apple is working on a new product category: smart glasses. The goal is to develop intelligent glasses that can compete with Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. While Meta already has a market-ready model, Apple's glasses are still in the development phase. The devices are planned for market launch in 2026 or 2027 at the earliest. The key difference: Apple is developing its own chips for the glasses, based on Apple Watch technology.
If you're interested in new technologies, it's exciting to see how Apple is taking the wearables space forward. Following the iPhone, Apple Watch, and Vision Pro, the next step is apparently coming: smart glasses. This won't be pure augmented reality, but a device with a camera, microphone, and artificial intelligence—similar to Meta. The difference lies primarily in how Apple integrates the technology and what's possible in the long term.
Apple is developing its own chip for the glasses
According to a Bloomberg report, Apple is working internally on a specially adapted chip optimized for smart glasses. It is based on existing SoCs from the Apple Watch. Compared to the chips in iPhones, these consume significantly less power—an important factor for wearable devices. The chip is designed to support the necessary AI functions without draining the battery too quickly. Volume production is planned for 2026 or 2027.
Features: Camera, AI and possibly 3D video
Apple's smart glasses are expected to be similarly equipped to the current Meta Ray-Ban models. This includes cameras, microphones, and integrated AI. Conceivable functions include taking photos and videos, real-time language translation, and AI-supported assistance functions. Another possible feature is visual intelligence – scanning the environment, recognizing and describing objects, product recognition, or navigation. Cupertino is apparently planning to integrate multiple cameras into the glasses. This could be used to record spatial videos. This would allow Apple to build on the existing features of the Vision Pro and bring them into a lighter, everyday device (via Bloomberg).
No AR – at least for now
The glasses currently being developed are not equipped with augmented reality features. They are intended to be more of a smart camera with AI support. While Apple is still working on full-fledged AR glasses, this development is expected to take several years. The focus is therefore currently on a product suitable for everyday use that can compete with Meta, but remains on Apple's level of technology and quality.
Apple launches AI glasses with its own chip technology
Cupertino is planning to enter the smart glasses market, relying on its own chip specifically developed for energy-efficient AI applications. The device is expected to offer functions such as photo and video recording, environmental analysis, and language translation. Unlike full-fledged AR glasses, the focus is on practical AI features for everyday use. The market launch is planned for 2026 or 2027. This clearly positions Apple as a competitor to Meta – with a product that combines technical precision, energy efficiency, and smart functions. (Image: Shutterstock / alphaspirit.it)
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