According to a recent Bloomberg report, Apple is working intensively on three new AI wearables. Specifically, these include smart glasses, an AI pendant, and AirPods with an integrated camera. All three products are said to be developed around the digital assistant Siri. The focus is clearly on artificial intelligence and context-based assistance. The devices are intended not only to execute commands but also to understand what is happening in the environment.
Apple has been consistently expanding its wearable portfolio for years. After the Apple Watch and AirPods, the next step now appears to be: wearable devices that function as constant AI companions.
According to Bloomberg, Apple has made significant progress in recent months. The smart glasses project, in particular, is said to have gained momentum internally. At the same time, other products are still in an early stage and could theoretically be discontinued.
Siri is at the heart of all developments. According to the report, the devices are being explicitly designed "around the digital assistant".
Apple smart glasses with camera and computer vision
The smart glasses are said to be equipped with a high-resolution camera for photos and videos and will directly compete with the Meta smart glasses. According to the report, Apple has made "significant progress" in their development over the past few months.
A display is not planned. Instead, Apple is relying on speakers, microphones, and cameras. The current prototypes have two camera lenses:
- A camera for high-resolution photos and videos
- A second camera for computer vision
The computer vision camera is designed to provide the device with context about its surroundings. This means the glasses recognize what is in their field of view and can process this information.
This understanding of the environment could enable the implementation of functions reminiscent of the visual intelligence features on the iPhone. Examples include:
- Context-based information about objects
- More precise navigation in Apple Maps
- Integration of memories depending on location or situation
According to the report, the goal is clearly defined: The glasses are intended to function as an all-day AI companion that understands in real time what is seen and done.
Development and design
Early prototypes of the Apple glasses were connected to a separate battery and an iPhone via a cable. In newer versions, the components are integrated directly into the frame.
Apple develops its own eyeglass frames in different sizes and colors. Although partnerships with other companies were considered, Apple ultimately decided to implement the design entirely in-house.
Apple is using high-quality components for the materials. These include acrylic elements, which are intended to give the glasses a sophisticated look. Internally, there are also considerations to release the device in further versions over time.
AI pin: The iPhone's "eyes and ears"
Alongside the glasses, Apple is working on an AI-powered pendant. Last month, The Information reported on an AI-powered, wearable device about the size of an AirTag. It was described as a "thin, flat, round disc with an aluminum and glass casing". The device is said to include the following components:
- Two cameras
- A loudspeaker
- Three microphones
Bloomberg has now added further details and compared the product to the failed Humane AI Pin. However, there are crucial differences.
Unlike the Humane AI Pin, Apple's AI pendant will reportedly have neither a display nor a projector system. Furthermore, the Humane device was designed as a standalone product. Apple's solution, on the other hand, is said to rely heavily on an iPhone for processing.
The AI-powered attachment would essentially function as a permanently activated camera for the smartphone. It would also serve as a microphone for Siri commands. Some Apple employees internally refer to the device as the "eyes and ears" of the iPhone.
Internal discussions and wearing methods
One point of internal debate was whether to integrate a speaker. Such a speaker would allow users to speak directly to the device without taking the iPhone out of their pocket or wearing AirPods.
Apple envisions the AI pendant being either clipped to clothing or worn as a necklace.
According to the report, the product is still in an early stage of development. Therefore, there is a possibility that it will be discontinued. If Apple decides to continue development, a market launch could occur as early as next year.
AirPods with integrated camera
As a third project, Apple is continuing to work on AirPods with a camera. According to reports, this product could be released as early as this year.
Here too, the concept fits the overarching strategy: wearable devices that capture visual information and combine it with AI functions. In conjunction with Siri, such AirPods could recognize environmental information and react contextually.
Dependence on the next Siri generation
All three products depend heavily on the further development of Siri. However, the new generation of the digital assistant continues to be delayed.
Ideally, hardware and software should be mature at the same time. If the hardware is ready for market while Siri hasn't yet reached the necessary performance level, an imbalance arises.
Especially for devices designed as "all-day AI companions", reliable, context-aware software is crucial.
Apple's AI wearables: Progress with open questions
Apple is visibly pushing ahead with the development of AI wearables. The smart glasses, in particular, appear sophisticated and strategically well-positioned. With two cameras, computer vision, and tight Siri integration, Apple is pursuing the goal of a constant, context-aware companion.
The AI-powered trailer is technically interesting, but still raises questions about its practical use. Since the product is in an early stage of development, it remains to be seen whether it will actually reach the market.
AirPods with a camera could become a reality more quickly as an extension of the existing ecosystem. Ultimately, the quality of Siri will determine the success of these new devices. If Apple manages to implement artificial intelligence reliably and in a way that is suitable for everyday use, smart glasses, AI pendants, and AirPods with cameras could mark the next big step in the wearables sector. (Image: Shutterstock / Peshkova)
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