Apple is reportedly developing smart glasses, with a potential launch by 2027, powered by custom-designed chips to enhance augmented reality experiences. These glasses are part of Apple's broader strategy to expand its wearables beyond the Apple Watch and AirPods.
Custom Chip Development
Apple is making significant strides in creating a custom chip for its smart glasses. Mass production of this chip is projected to begin in late 2026 or 2027. The chip is based on the highly efficient S-series chips used in the Apple Watch. However, it's being modified to consume less power and effectively manage multiple cameras. The new chip will also support "multiple cameras". This in-house development aims to reduce reliance on third parties and deepen hardware-software integration.
Augmented Reality and Visual Intelligence
The smart glasses are expected to incorporate augmented reality (AR) features. Apple is also exploring non-AR glasses that utilize cameras to scan the environment and leverage AI to assist users. A key focus will likely be on visual intelligence, enabling real-time object recognition and contextual information. Apple has been integrating these capabilities into its iPhones and other products, setting the stage for a heads-up display format in the glasses.
Competition and Market Strategy
Apple's entry into the smart glasses market positions it to compete with Meta's Ray-Ban glasses. CEO Tim Cook is reportedly determined to outpace Meta in the smart glasses market. Meta is also planning to launch its first true AR glasses in 2027, suggesting a potential head-to-head competition with Apple.
Potential Features and Capabilities
The smart glasses are expected to include cameras, speakers, and microphones, allowing them to be aware of the user's environment. They are also expected to support voice commands, photo capture, and audio playback. Apple is also planning new AirPods models and Apple Watch models with cameras, allowing the company to push Visual Intelligence tech into more places. The glasses could get an Apple Silicon-based chip, as well as microphones, speakers, and cameras, where Apple Intelligence helps the glass gather surrounding data.
Apple's AR Ecosystem
Apple has been building a robust AR ecosystem through its ARKit development platform. ARKit allows developers to create engaging AR experiences on iOS devices. Apple also provides developer services that allow developers to create more comprehensively. With tools like ARKit and RealityKit, developers can create high-quality AR experiences. The company's focus on hardware and software integration is evident in its AR offerings. Apple's ARKit opens up augmented reality to all users, which allows businesses to be more innovative than ever.
Broader Product Renaissance
The smart glasses are part of a broader "product renaissance" planned by Apple for 2027, coinciding with the iPhone's 20-year anniversary. This includes a foldable iPhone, new AI features, and potentially robotics products. Apple plans to launch a series of exciting new products. The company is also developing new processors for its Mac lineup. These chips are intended to strengthen Apple's AI capabilities. By 2027, Siri should finally live up to all of the AI hype, according to reports.
While the 2027 launch date is based on current reports and projections, it's important to note that product development timelines can shift. Apple is also working on true AR glasses too, but these are much further out. The actual release date for Apple's AR glasses may realistically be sometime next decade.
