Apple reportedly plans to release its first smart glasses by the end of 2026. The initial version will not offer typical augmented reality features, but will instead compete with Meta's Ray-Ban glasses.
Apple Glass will not have AR capabilities. Bloomberg writer Mark Gurmann reported this in the latest edition of his PowerOn newsletter. He typically provides in-depth insider information in his newsletters, making the news in them highly anticipated.
Staggered Schedule
The chip developed specifically for the glasses is scheduled to enter mass production by 2027 at the latest. Apple is relying on its own processor to optimize the efficiency and performance of wearable AI applications. Bloomberg reports that the company is currently struggling to meet the delivery deadline. Apple plans to work with overseas suppliers to mass-produce prototypes by the end of this year.
Competing with Meta, not the AR revolution
Apple will not initially release fully functional AR glasses, but rather a model to compete with Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. These devices will include cameras, microphones, and speakers. They will also include features like Siri activation, real-time translation, navigation, and conversational phone calls. Users will be able to take photos and videos without even picking up their iPhone. A key advantage is tight integration with Apple's existing ecosystem. While other manufacturers struggle to integrate features into the iPhone, Apple can achieve seamless integration—similar to the Watch, AirPods, or iPad. Meanwhile, Apple is also developing new features for AirPods and smartwatches. Plans include adding a camera to AirPods, which could be available by 2027 thanks to a specially developed Glennie chip. These AirPods can be used with smartglasses and offer additional viewing angles, better microphones, and optimized audio drivers. This will enable Apple to create a connected wearable ecosystem. Incidentally, rumors of Apple Glasses have been circulating since 2020, and Amazon is also said to be developing smartglasses.
What do you think of Apple's decision to release simple smartglasses without AR capabilities first? Do you think it's a wise move, or would you prefer to get the full AR experience right away?
