Apple Reportedly Explores Multiple AI Wearables Focused on Visual Intelligence

Sources suggest the company is developing three devices that use cameras to interpret surroundings, spanning eyewear, accessories, and audio hardware.

Apple is exploring avenues beyond the iPhone display to identify the next frontier for its artificial intelligence. A recent claim from TechCrunch, referencing Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, indicates that the technology behemoth is now advancing the development of three new hardware formats: smart glasses, an AI-driven pendant, and camera-integrated AirPods. These gadgets function as the "eyes and ears" of the Apple ecosystem, enabling Siri to perceive the actual environment and offer proactive assistance without requiring the user to unlock their phone.

The primary item under development is a pair of smart glasses, internally designated as N50. In contrast to the costly and cumbersome Apple Vision Pro, these glasses would be devoid of any display. Instead, they would operate in a manner akin to the renowned Ray-Ban Meta glasses, incorporating integrated cameras, speakers, and microphones. The objective is to enable users to enquire of Siri regarding their visual surroundings, snap images, and obtain vocal replies, while delegating intensive computing tasks to a linked iPhone to conserve battery life and minimise weight.

The article outlines plans for AirPods featuring low-resolution infrared cameras. These sensors will not serve photographic purposes; instead, they will furnish environmental data to the AI, facilitating functionalities such as gesture control or spatial awareness. Furthermore, Apple is investigating a “pendant” device—approximately the dimensions of an AirTag—that may be affixed to apparel or worn as a necklace. Similar to the spectacles, this device would work as a passive visual sensor for Siri, circumventing the shortcomings of ineffective independent AI devices by operating solely as an iPhone accessory rather than a substitute.

This hardware initiative indicates a change in Apple's AI strategy. Instead of attempting to integrate strong processors into independent devices, Apple seems to prioritise utilising wearables to transmit visual data to the iPhone. This strategy enables the corporation to capitalise on the extensive iPhone user base while providing more affordable and stylish entry options into its ambient computing environment. Although these projects are now in active development, their completion is not imminent. Reports indicate that production of the smart glasses may commence in December 2026, with a potential release in 2027. The camera-integrated AirPods and pendant are anticipated to adhere to a comparable schedule, but plans may yet evolve as the technology advances.