Apple Is Developing AI Smart Glasses, AI Pin, and Camera-Equipped AirPods

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Apple is accelerating development of three AI-focused wearable devices: smart glasses, a wearable AI pin, and AirPods with integrated cameras. The effort is part of a broader push to expand Apple Intelligence beyond the iPhone, according to Bloomberg.

All three products are designed to work alongside the iPhone and a more advanced version of Siri currently in development. Each device includes cameras intended to give Apple’s AI systems visual awareness of a user’s surroundings.

Smart Glasses Could Launch in 2027

Apple’s smart glasses are being developed as a competitor to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses. Internal prototypes have been distributed to hardware teams, with a 2027 launch target. Production could begin as early as December 2026.

The glasses will not feature a display in the lenses. Instead, they rely on voice interaction through Siri.

They are expected to include two cameras: a high-resolution camera capable of capturing photos and video, and a secondary sensor that interprets environmental context and measures distance, similar to LiDAR on the iPhone.

Planned features include voice-controlled phone calls, music playback, photo and video capture, object recognition, walking navigation, and contextual responses based on what the user is looking at. Apple is also exploring capabilities such as reading physical text and adding event details to the calendar, live translation, and context-aware reminders.

Apple has opted to design its own frames rather than partner with an existing eyewear brand. The frames use premium materials, including acrylic elements, and integrate the battery and core components directly into the structure. Multiple sizes and colors are expected at launch.

Also Read: Apple Glasses Take Priority as Apple Cancels Vision Pro Revamp

AI Pin Remains in Early Development

Apple is also developing a wearable AI pin or pendant, though the project remains in early stages and could be canceled. If it proceeds, it could launch in 2027.

The device includes a low-resolution, always-on camera designed to provide environmental context to Siri, but it is not intended for capturing photos or video. A built-in microphone allows voice interaction.

The AI pin is being positioned as an iPhone accessory rather than a standalone device. Most processing will be handled by the iPhone. The pin contains a dedicated chip similar in capability to the one used in AirPods. Apple is still deciding whether to include a speaker for two-way audio responses.

The device could attach to clothing or bags via a clip, or be worn as a pendant using an integrated attachment point.

Camera-Equipped AirPods May Arrive Sooner

AirPods with integrated cameras are further along in development and could launch as early as this year.

Like the AI pin, the cameras are designed for contextual awareness rather than photography. Visual data would be used to enhance Siri’s understanding of the user’s environment.

Upgraded Siri Is Central to the Strategy

All three devices depend on a significantly upgraded Siri experience. Apple is developing a chatbot-style version of Siri for iOS 27 that relies on AI models developed by Google.

Although recent Apple Intelligence features have rolled out gradually, these wearables are being built around a more capable assistant that can process visual input and respond with contextual information.

Broader AI Hardware Roadmap

In addition to these devices, Apple is working on augmented reality glasses with an integrated display, though that product remains several years away.

The company is also developing a home hub smart display expected later this year, along with a larger-screen version featuring a robotic arm that could launch in 2027. A new HomePod and a compact indoor sensor for home security and automation are also in development.

Together, the projects signal Apple’s push to extend AI across wearable and home hardware, with the iPhone continuing to serve as the primary processing hub.

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