Apple is reportedly working on smart glasses, codenamed N50, as confirmed by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman. These glasses will integrate Apple Intelligence (AI) to analyze the user’s environment, but notably, they will not include augmented reality features at this stage. While the release is not imminent, the company is focused on creating a device that can deliver useful data through AI analysis of its surroundings.
The design and functionality of Apple’s smart glasses will be similar to those of Meta’s glasses, which are the result of a collaboration between Meta and Ray-Ban. According to 9to5Mac, Apple’s glasses will likely feature built-in microphones, speakers, and an AI assistant for interaction. However, Apple seems to be leaving out a camera due to privacy concerns. As of now, there are no official confirmations, but Gurman suggests that Apple’s AI system will be a primary feature of the glasses, working seamlessly with the device.
Adjusted Plans for Augmented Reality
Initially, Apple had plans to release augmented reality glasses, but those plans have been delayed. Instead, the company appears to be pivoting to a more straightforward approach by launching smart glasses that focus on gathering environmental data. The goal is to provide users with useful information without the complexity of augmented reality. The glasses will likely collect information about the user’s surroundings and relay it to the user through the Apple Intelligence AI system, which will enhance the user experience.
Despite these adjustments, Apple continues to develop augmented reality technology for potential future releases. The timeline for the release of these more advanced AR glasses has been postponed, with no set date for when they might hit the market. As of now, the N50 glasses represent a simpler and more immediately attainable product.
AirPods with Built-in Cameras and Future Plans
In addition to the smart glasses, Gurman also confirmed that Apple is working on AirPods with built-in cameras, expected to be released around 2027. These cameras will likely support Visual Intelligence features, though specific details about their functionality remain scarce. Both the smart glasses and AirPods are likely to play a significant role in Apple’s push toward integrating more AI-driven technologies into its ecosystem.
It is still unclear whether Apple will allow the smart glasses to take photos, notes NIXSOLUTIONS. There have been speculations that the company may avoid this feature due to privacy concerns, though no final decision has been made. As development continues, we’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available.
If these developments are realized as expected, Apple’s smart glasses could compete with the highly popular Ray-Ban Meta glasses, positioning Apple as a key player in the wearable tech space.