Apple is reportedly planning to launch AI-powered glasses, a pendant, and AirPods
Source: The Verge
Overview
Apple is pushing ahead with plans to launch its first pair of smart glasses, an AI‑powered pendant, and camera‑equipped AirPods, according to a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The three devices will have built‑in cameras and will connect to the iPhone, allowing Siri to use visual context to carry out actions.
Smart Glasses
Apple is reportedly aiming to start production of its smart glasses in December, ahead of a 2027 launch. The device is expected to compete directly with Meta’s lineup of smart glasses and is rumored to feature:
- Speakers, microphones, and a high‑resolution camera for photos and videos
- An additional lens designed to enable AI‑powered features
- No built‑in display, but support for phone calls, Siri interaction, music playback, and actions based on surroundings (e.g., identifying meal ingredients, recognizing landmarks, or reminding users to complete tasks)
Apple plans to develop the frames in‑house rather than partnering with a third‑party manufacturer like Meta’s collaborations with Ray‑Ban and Oakley. Early prototypes used a cable to connect to a battery pack and an iPhone, but newer versions are said to have the components embedded in the frame. Apple is also reportedly working on AI‑powered smart glasses with a display, though that launch “remains many years away.”
AI‑Powered Pendant
Apple is expected to build upon its Google Gemini‑powered Siri upgrade with an AirTag‑sized AI pendant that can be worn as a necklace or a pin. The pendant would:
- Serve as an always‑on camera for the iPhone
- Include a microphone for prompting Siri
The device is rumored to contain a built‑in chip but will rely primarily on the iPhone’s processing power. The pendant could arrive as early as next year, according to Bloomberg and the initial report from The Information.
Upgraded AirPods
Apple could also launch upgraded AirPods this year. According to Gurman, these AirPods may pair low‑resolution cameras with AI to analyze the wearer’s surroundings, extending the visual‑AI capabilities beyond the glasses and pendant.