Apple Smart Glasses and AirPods with Cameras Rumored For 2027
- Imagine controlling your playlist with just a wave—Apple might make it happen.
- Could your AirPods soon snap photos? Apple's exploring the possibilities.
- Ready for wearables that change how you see the world? Stay tuned.
Apple is reportedly working on new augmented reality (AR) products, including smart glasses and AirPods equipped with cameras, targeting a potential release in 2027. This move is seen as part of Apple's strategy to expand its AR offerings beyond the recently launched Vision Pro headset.
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple's Vision Products Group is considering launching smart glasses comparable to Meta's Ray-Ban collaboration. "Into 2027, the team is considering launching smart glasses on par with the Meta Ray-Bans," Gurman reported in his latest Power On newsletter.
Into 2027, the team is considering launching smart glasses on par with the Meta Ray-Bans.— Mark Gurman from Bloomberg
Photo via Unity Developers // Apple's expanding AR ecosystem may soon include everyday wearables like glasses.
Repurposing Vision Pro Technology
The initiative aims to leverage the substantial investment made in the Vision Pro's visual intelligence capabilities. Gurman noted, "The idea is to salvage the billions of dollars spent on the Vision Pro’s visual intelligence technology, which can scan the environment around a user and supply useful data."
Visual intelligence technology allows devices to analyze surroundings and provide relevant information to users. It's a part of Apple Intelligence and can perform tasks like looking up products or adding events to a calendar from a poster. This feature is also expected to roll out to the iPhone 16 series later this year.
AirPods with Cameras
In an unexpected twist, Apple is also exploring the concept of AirPods with built-in cameras. While this might raise eyebrows, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo clarified that these would be infrared cameras intended not for photography but for enhancing functionality.
The cameras could enable gesture controls, allowing users to, for example, start or stop music playback by waving a hand. Gurman explained, "The company is exploring the idea of putting cameras on the earbuds, along with more advanced AI and health sensors. That would give consumers many of the benefits of smart glasses without needing lenses and frames."
Photo via Mashable // Apple's current AirPods might soon feature built-in cameras for gesture controls.
Expanding the AR Ecosystem
These developments come as Apple seeks to make AR features more accessible and user-friendly. The Vision Pro headset, priced at $3,500, has faced criticism for being too heavy and expensive for extended use, potentially limiting its mass-market appeal.
Before the potential 2027 launch of the smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods, Apple reportedly plans to release additional products in the Vision lineup:
- Lower-Cost Vision Headset (2025): Expected to be priced around $2,000, possibly using less expensive materials and lacking features like EyeSight.
- Second-Generation Vision Pro (2026): Rumored to include an upgraded processor for enhanced performance.
Gurman mentioned, "With the lower price, Apple is expecting unit sales of the device to be at least double the level of the Vision Pro."
Photo via AppleInsider // Pictured: Apple Glasses concept. Are you ready for Apple's next big leap in wearable technology? Let us know your thoughts.
Personal Reflections
As someone who's followed Apple's innovations over the years, this push into more everyday AR devices feels both exciting and inevitable. The idea of integrating advanced technology into something as commonplace as glasses or earbuds could revolutionize how we interact with our environment.
The prospect of AirPods that respond to gestures is particularly intriguing. Imagine controlling your music or answering calls with a simple hand motion—it's straight out of a sci-fi movie. However, questions about privacy and practicality will need to be addressed. For instance, how will people react to earbuds with cameras in public spaces?
The Road Ahead
Apple's rumored plans signal a significant shift in the AR landscape. By repurposing existing technology from the Vision Pro, the company appears poised to offer more accessible and versatile AR experiences. With competitors like Meta already in the market, Apple's foray into smart glasses and advanced AirPods could set new standards for consumer technology.
As we await official announcements, one thing is clear: the next few years could see some of the most transformative developments in personal tech we've ever witnessed.
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