According to a report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has set a date for the unveiling of its long-anticipated AI smart glasses. The device, simply referred to as 'Apple AI glasses', will be revealed to the public during next year's Worldwide Developers Conference, WWDC27. This news arrives after months of speculation that placed commercial availability by the end of 2027, confirming that timeline remains intact.
A strategy similar to Vision Pro to prepare the ecosystem
The decision to showcase the glasses at WWDC suggests an approach similar to the one used for the Apple Vision Pro in 2023. Back then, the headset was previewed months in advance so developers could create apps for the platform. The same logic likely applies to the AI glasses: Apple probably intends to release a software development kit (SDK) alongside the announcement, enabling third parties to integrate data and actions from external apps. This would make the device far more flexible than a closed system, expanding the possibilities for interaction with Siri and AI tools.
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Privacy at the heart of design choices
One reason for the delay from the original expected launch in late 2026 is the ongoing effort to address privacy concerns. Competing products, such as the Meta Ray-Ban, have drawn criticism, opposition, and even bans in certain venues due to their built-in cameras. Apple is evaluating several options, including the possibility of removing the camera entirely. According to Gurman's report, one internal option involves keeping the cameras but disabling their ability to record photos or video, using them solely to feed AI systems that recognize objects and places. This approach mirrors what Apple has already planned for camera-equipped AirPods and builds on the visual intelligence features in the iPhone. Additionally, Apple is said to be prototyping a range of new hardware and software privacy features not available on current products.
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No display, but core features and distinctive design
Apple's AI glasses will not include any built-in display, but they are expected to capture photos, play music, interact with Siri, handle phone calls, and more. The design is intended to be unique and fashionable, setting them apart from competitors. The lack of a display clearly differentiates them from augmented reality headsets and positions them as everyday accessories. However, the ability to capture images and video remains a sensitive issue: if Apple opts for active cameras, it will need to balance utility and privacy.
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The topic of AI security has become central in the tech debate. Just days ago, OpenAI demonstrated an autonomous agent capable of hacking into computer systems, raising questions about the reliability of intelligent assistants. Apple, with its strong emphasis on privacy, aims to offer a safer alternative, but the glasses' success will also depend on winning user trust.
For more on wearable technology, see the Wikipedia page on smartglasses.
Source: https://9to5mac.com/2026/07/26/apples-ai-glasses-to-be-unveiled-at-wwdc27-report
