Apple's much-anticipated AI glasses, initially slated for a 2026-27 launch, have now been postponed to late 2027, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Codenamed N50, the smart glasses are designed as a hardware platform for Apple Intelligence, integrating Siri and various visual AI features.
Key Features of the N50 Smart Glasses
The upcoming glasses will include cameras, microphones, and speakers, enabling real-world analysis through Siri voice commands. Core functionalities will encompass phone calls, music control, live language translation, and turn-by-turn navigation. These capabilities are similar to Meta's current offering but are reportedly 'better made,' according to an insider.
Apple's Cautious Approach
Apple is refining the technology to ensure a polished user experience. Future versions are envisioned as health-focused devices that could eventually incorporate augmented reality capabilities. The company sees eyewear as a massive opportunity, given the billions of people who already use prescription glasses, sunglasses, or fashion eyewear. However, Apple is determined to avoid rushing an underwhelming product to market. Siri's AI upgrades are still expected to roll out by the end of 2026, but the glasses themselves will wait until the platform is fully ready.
Vision Air Headset
Alongside the smart glasses, Apple is reportedly working on a slimmer and more affordable headset called Vision Air. Positioned as the successor to the $3,499 Vision Pro, Vision Air is expected to launch by 2029. Development had previously stalled, but Apple has resumed work to address design and pricing challenges that limited Vision Pro's adoption. Until then, the mixed reality category remains 'on ice,' with no major updates planned beyond the current M5 Vision Pro.
Apple's decision reflects its cautious approach to AI wearables. The company is committed to delivering a high-quality experience rather than rushing an incomplete product to market.
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