Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the smart glasses market with an artificial intelligence-focused wearable that could launch in late 2027, extending the company's AI ambitions beyond the iPhone and into a new category of personal devices.
The first-generation glasses are expected to focus on AI rather than augmented reality and are not currently expected to include a display. Instead, the device could rely on cameras, microphones, built-in speakers and Siri to provide users with information about their surroundings.
According to reports, the glasses are internally codenamed N50 and could use cameras alongside Apple's Visual Intelligence technology to give Siri greater contextual awareness. Users may be able to ask questions about objects and places around them, translate signs and retrieve information without looking at their phones.
Apple is also exploring a feature that could allow users to ask Siri to remember something they see and surface it later as a reminder. The company is reportedly considering privacy controls around the cameras, an area that has become increasingly important as camera-equipped smart glasses gain wider adoption.
The glasses could also function as an open-ear audio device. Built-in speakers are expected to support music, calls and Siri interactions, while microphones would allow users to issue voice commands. Unlike more advanced AR headsets, information would primarily be delivered through audio rather than projected into the wearer's field of view.
Apple is reportedly testing several physical designs, including larger and slimmer rectangular frames as well as oval and circular options. Potential colours include black, ocean blue and light brown, while acetate is being considered as a frame material.
Health-related capabilities could eventually become another part of the product. Apple is reportedly exploring features such as heart-rate monitoring and software supporting fitness and wellness, although these are not expected to be included in the first generation.
The device would put Apple into more direct competition with Meta, which has established an early position in AI-enabled smart glasses through its Ray-Ban partnership. Google's renewed push into smart glasses is also increasing competition around wearable AI.
Reports suggest Apple is currently aiming to introduce the glasses at its Worldwide Developers Conference in 2027, followed by availability later that year. However, the development timeline could still change before the company formally announces the product.
For Apple, the glasses could provide another hardware platform for Siri and Visual Intelligence as technology companies increasingly explore wearable devices as a hands-free interface for generative AI.
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