Apple is reportedly developing its own artificial intelligence (AI)-powered smart glasses to compete with products like Meta Ray-Bans.
According to MacRumors, some additional details about Apple's work on new AI smart glasses have been revealed.
Apple: AI Smart Glasses with Hand Gesture Controls
The AI smart glasses will include two cameras. A high-resolution camera will be included to take photos and videos, which users can share on social networks (and generally use them like iPhone photos). A second, lower-resolution wide-angle lens will read hand gesturesandprovide visual input for Siri.
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Apple already uses gesture-based input for the Vision Pro , and the AirPods Pro are rumored to also be upgraded with lower-resolution cameras and gesture support. Apple appears to be investing in gesture support, as it's considered an ideal input method when there's no screen available for interaction.
While future versions of the smart glasses could include a built-in display for augmented reality features, the first version will have no display at all. Apple won't include a display, LiDAR, 3D cameras, or other similar technologies because such features consume too much power.
Battery life is a major constraint because Apple needs to keep the glasses thin and light . Battery size is the bottleneck behind Apple's hardware decisions, which is why the company opts for a limited feature set.
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According to recent rumors, Apple is testing multiple styles for smart glasses, with plans to use cellulose acetate. Cellulose acetate is a lightweight, plant-based material that is more flexible than plastic.
Siri integration
Apple's smart glasses will incorporate the smarter version of Siri that Apple plans to introduce in iOS 27. The device will be able to take photos, record videos, and make phone calls, while users will be able to interact with Siri to ask questions about their surroundings. The feature set will be similar to the features available on the Meta Ray-Bans.
Rumors suggest that Apple could unveil the glasses later this year, with a release following in 2027, although it's also possible that we won't see them announced until 2027.
Overall, Apple's rumored entry into the AI-powered smart glasses category shows a clear intention to expand its ecosystem beyond traditional devices. With an emphasis on usability, minimalist design, and efficient power management, the company seems to be opting for a more balanced approach, prioritizing the everyday experience over flashy but cumbersome technologies.
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At the same time, the integration of Siri and the use of gestures as a basic way of interaction suggest a new direction in the way users will communicate with technology in the future. If the rumors are confirmed, Apple's smart glasses could be another step towards more "invisible" and natural interfaces, bringing artificial intelligence even closer to everyday life.
