Apple reportedly eyeing 2026 debut for its first smart glasses
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its inaugural smart glasses in 2026, according to a recent report from Bloomberg. These forthcoming glasses are expected to integrate cameras, microphones, and speakers, enabling them to “analyse the external world and take requests via the Siri voice assistant.”
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Beyond Siri integration, the smart glasses are rumoured to offer a range of functionalities, including phone call capabilities, music playback control, live translation, and turn-by-turn directions. They will also reportedly feature an in-house chip. However, full-fledged augmented reality (AR) features are still “years away,” suggesting the initial iteration will focus on more immediate, practical applications.
This rumour surfaces just a day after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced the acquisition of io, the AI hardware design firm owned by former Apple design chief Jony Ive. Altman and Ive are also planning to release their first AI devices next year, with speculation pointing to a screenless device equipped with integrated cameras and microphones.
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Sources tell Bloomberg that Apple’s upcoming device will bear similarities to Meta’s existing Ray-Ban smart glasses but will be “better made.” Meta notably sold over 1 million pairs of its Ray-Ban smart glasses last year. Meanwhile, Google recently revealed its collaboration with Xreal, Warby Parker, Samsung, and Gentle Monster to develop AI smart glasses on its Android XR platform, indicating a burgeoning market for such devices.
In related news, Bloomberg also reports that Apple has apparently shelved plans for a smartwatch featuring cameras and advanced AI functionalities like Visual Intelligence. Despite this, the tech giant is reportedly still working on AirPods equipped with cameras, suggesting a continued exploration of camera-integrated wearable technology.
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