Apple is making a big push into smart eyewear. The company is developing its first smart glasses, informally known as Apple Glasses. This move aims to challenge Meta’s popular Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. Reports suggest Apple has even put its next mixed reality device, called Vision Air, on hold. All resources are now focused on getting Apple Glasses ready for launch.
Industry watchers are piecing together what makes these new glasses unique.
Style as a Core Feature
It looks like Apple Glasses will be sold as a high-tech fashion item. This strategy worked well for the Apple Watch, which became a popular accessory. Apple wants to offer many choices for the frames and temples of the glasses. Users will pick from different colors and designs. This lets people match the glasses to their personal style. This approach stands out from Meta Ray-Ban, which had fewer options when it first came out.
Siri Will Lead the Way
A new version of Siri will power Apple Glasses. Most of the controls will happen through voice commands. Apple has reportedly rebuilt Siri for this. The new Siri uses a Large Language Model (LLM). This makes it smarter and better at understanding what users want.
Lots of AI Features Expected
Many powerful AI features are rumored for Apple Glasses. Users could take photos and record videos. The glasses might play music, podcasts, and audiobooks. They could also give directions. Users might ask questions and get answers. The glasses could explain things about the world around them. Visual Intelligence tech would identify plants, animals, landmarks, and more. Calling and sending messages would also be possible. Real-time language translation is another exciting possibility.
Likely to Connect with iPhone
Apple Glasses will use a chipset based on the ones found in the Apple Watch. They might need an iPhone connection to work fully. This connection would help with AI processing and other features. It would tap into the iPhone’s power and make the glasses even smarter.
Aiming for a 2026 Debut
Apple reportedly plans to unveil Apple Glasses in late 2026. Full production could start in the second quarter of 2027. The glasses would then hit stores sometime in 2027. Apple might price these glasses affordably. This would help them compete directly with Meta Ray-Bans. Those glasses start at $380 in the US.