Brifing

Apple smart glasses: Key details revealed

iPhone's new wearable companion arriving in 2027

Macworld2 min

1Design revolution

Unlike Vision Pro, Apple's smart glasses will adopt a traditional eyeglass form factor. Differing from Meta and Google's products, they're being designed entirely in-house without third-party collaborations. Four frame styles are in testing: large rectangular (similar to Ray-Ban Wayfarers), oval/circular models, slim rectangular resembling Tim Cook's glasses, and small oval options. Using acetate material promises both durability and premium aesthetics.

2Technical specs

The glasses will utilize modified versions of Apple Watch S-series chips, optimized for extreme power efficiency. They'll feature vertically-oriented oval cameras, open-ear speakers and advanced microphone arrays. Operating via Bluetooth connection to iPhone, they won't function as standalone devices. Distinct LED indicators around cameras will visually differentiate them from Meta's offerings.

3AI-powered features

Visual intelligence capabilities will enable object recognition and contextual awareness. Advanced Siri integration will power voice commands, live translation and smart reminders. Users can identify store items by looking or get navigation with real-world landmarks. The first generation will display simple notifications rather than full AR visuals.

4iPhone companion

Positioned as wearable interfaces rather than computers, they'll handle basic functions like photos, music and calls. Most processing will occur on iPhone or secure cloud infrastructure. Apple's privacy focus means minimal data collection. Photos taken with glasses will seamlessly appear in iPhone's Photos app.

5Market positioning

They'll compete with Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses but target a premium segment. Unlike Vision Pro, they're designed for mass appeal with lighter weight and lower price. As key components of Apple Intelligence ecosystem, they'll integrate with the new Siri expected at WWDC26.

6Health tracking

While less comprehensive than Apple Watch, basic health monitoring features are planned. Vision health sensors and posture analysis capabilities are under consideration. Advanced features like ECG or blood oxygen measurement won't be included in initial models.

7Future roadmap

The first generation will have limited features, evolving into full AR glasses over time. Apple aims for seamless 3D digital content integration with physical environments. Long-term plans may involve integration with Vision Pro. Foldable lens technology could enable slimmer designs by 2030.

8Production timeline

Manufacturing will reportedly begin in late 2026 for early 2027 launch. Foxconn is tipped as main assembler with lenses supplied by Sony. First-year sales target is 10 million units at $499-$699 price range. Apple's entry could redefine the wearable technology landscape.

9Market impact

Apple's entry may propel smart glasses market to $30 billion by 2028. It will accelerate wearable adoption in daily life. Competitors will likely increase AI feature investments. The product may spark new debates about camera-equipped wearables' social acceptance while potentially setting new industry design standards.

Original article: Macworld — Apple'ın akıllı gözlükleri: Tüm detaylar