Apple Shifts Focus, Accelerates Smart Glasses Development

Apple is accelerating work on its first-generation smart glasses. The company has reportedly paused development on the next Vision Pro headset to prioritize this new wearable. This strategic shift aims to compete directly with Meta’s popular Ray-Bans.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple is pushing to get the glasses to market. The project is now a key priority for the company’s wearable division.

Fashion and Function in a Sleek Design

The Apple Glasses will prioritize style. They are designed as a fashion accessory first. This approach mirrors the initial launch strategy of the Apple Watch.

Apple plans multiple frame and temple options. The goal is a personalized look for consumers. The design must house a battery, chip, and multiple cameras. Different colors, sizes, and shapes are expected at launch.

A Supercharged Siri Will Be the Core Feature

A next-generation Siri is critical for the glasses’ success. Controls will be primarily voice-based. The AI needs to understand and act on complex commands intelligently.

Apple has rearchitected Siri using large language models. A smarter, more capable version is slated for a 2026 release. This advanced Siri could translate languages, identify landmarks, and help with daily tasks through the glasses’ cameras.

Rumored Capabilities and iPhone Dependency

The first-generation glasses will not have a built-in display. They will focus on AI features, cameras, and high-quality audio. A list of rumored functions has emerged from supply chain reports.

These functions include taking photos and recording video. The glasses will also play music, offer directions, and send messages. Visual Look Up will help identify plants, animals, and more.

The glasses will require a connected iPhone. They will use a custom Apple chip, similar to the Apple Watch. An iPhone connection will handle the heavy AI processing to conserve battery life.

A Competitive Launch Timeline

Apple is targeting a possible reveal in late 2026. A subsequent launch could follow in early 2027. The company is keen to establish a presence in the smart glasses market.

Pricing remains undisclosed. However, Apple is expected to compete with Meta’s Ray-Bans, which start at around $300. This aggressive timeline highlights the project’s new importance within Apple.

The development of Apple Glasses marks a significant new direction for the tech giant. By prioritizing this wearable, Apple is betting big on the future of ambient computing. The success of these smart glasses will depend on a seamless blend of style, intelligence, and practicality.

Thought you’d like to know

Will Apple Glasses have a screen?

The first-generation model is not expected to include a display. The initial focus will be on audio, cameras, and AI features through Siri, similar to the base model Meta Ray-Bans.

Do I need an iPhone to use Apple Glasses?

Yes, reports indicate the glasses will need a connection to an iPhone to function. The iPhone will handle the more complex processing tasks for the AI and other features.

What can Apple Glasses do?

Rumored features include taking photos, playing music, getting directions, and sending messages. A key function will be using the cameras for real-time translation and object identification via Siri.

When will Apple Glasses be released?

Current rumors suggest a possible announcement in late 2026, with a launch following in early 2027. Apple has reportedly sped up development to meet this timeline.

Why did Apple pause the next Vision Pro?

Apple has reallocated resources to accelerate the smart glasses project. The company sees the glasses as a more immediate and accessible product for the consumer market.

Trusted Sources

Reuters