Apple is preparing to enter the smart glasses market with a device designed to bring its Siri assistant into the real world. According to recent reports from Bloomberg and other sources close to the Cupertino company, the launch of its first AI-powered smart glasses is expected next year, with a possible unveiling at WWDC 2027. This product marks a significant shift for Apple, which has focused on earbuds and watches so far, but now seems ready to challenge giants like Meta and Google in the wearables space.
AI glasses, not AR, with cameras and integrated voice assistant
The new Apple glasses will be primarily designed as AI devices rather than augmented reality headsets. This means they will not feature built-in displays, but will rely on cameras and microphones to interact with the surroundings. The cameras will allow Siri to observe the real world and answer questions, provide context, and translate signage. One of the most anticipated features is the ability to ask Siri to save an image of an object or scene and remind you later, a capability that emerged from a macOS 26.7 leak. These glasses will also include speakers for music and audio playback, allowing them to function as open-ear headphones.
Sponsored Protocol
Privacy and in-house design, no partnership with eyewear makers
Unlike Meta, which partnered with Ray-Ban for its smart glasses, Apple has decided to design its devices entirely in-house, without partnerships with eyewear brands. According to Bloomberg, the company is developing several design variants, made of acetate, a more durable and higher-quality material than plastic. Available finishes will include black, ocean blue, and light brown. This choice reflects Apple's attention to aesthetics and robustness, but also its desire to avoid the privacy controversies that have surrounded Meta's products. The cameras on Apple's glasses may not support standard video recording to reduce the risk of misuse.
Potential health-related features in the future
Apple is considering positioning these glasses as wellness devices in future iterations. There is talk of integrating heart-rate sensors, similar to those in the AirPods Pro 3, and additional software features like workout tracking. However, these capabilities will not be present in the first version, which will focus primarily on the voice assistant and integration with the Apple ecosystem. The long-term strategy could thus see the glasses become a health hub, but for now Apple prefers not to take risks and perfect the basics.
Sponsored Protocol
Launch expected in September 2027 alongside a special iPhone
Recent reports indicate that Apple will unveil these glasses at WWDC 2027 to give developers time to prepare apps and integrations. Commercial availability should follow later in the fall, likely in September, coinciding with the twentieth anniversary of the iPhone, which might feature an all-glass design. This timeline suggests Apple aims for a coordinated launch to maximize media impact. Consumers who have already experienced products like the Mac mini with M6 chip or who follow Apple ecosystem news will be particularly interested in this new device. With the arrival of smart glasses, Apple could redefine how we interact with wearable technology, but it remains to be seen whether it can overcome the technical and privacy challenges that have so far limited this sector.
Sponsored Protocol
For those looking to explore the latest deals on tech accessories, the Labor Day sales 2026 offer discounts up to 50% on various products. Additionally, the recent news about Siri settlement dates claims up to $95 per device provides an interesting insight for Apple users. Finally, the comparison between the iPhone Ultra and Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, both launching in September, might influence purchase decisions for those torn between the two giants.
Source: https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/29/apple-first-ai-smart-glasses-feature-release-date-roundup
