Apple develops three artificial intelligence wearable devices

Apple is reportedly accelerating development of three artificial intelligence-powered wearable devices as the tech giant aims to compete in the rapidly evolving AI wearables market. According to Bloomberg, the company is ramping up work on AI-enabled smart glasses, a camera-equipped pendant, and enhanced AirPods, all designed to integrate deeply with the iPhone and Siri virtual assistant. The move comes as competitors including Meta and Snap push forward with their own smart wearable offerings.

The Information first reported in late January that Apple was developing an AI wearable pendant roughly the size of an AirTag with integrated cameras that users could pin to their clothing. Bloomberg now indicates that development of this device, along with the other AI-powered products, has gained momentum in recent weeks. The company has not publicly confirmed details about any of these projects.

Apple Smart Glasses Target 2027 Launch

Among the three AI wearables under development, Apple’s smart glasses appear closest to market release. The device, code-named N50 according to Bloomberg, will feature a high-resolution camera and is targeting the start of production as early as December. A public release is anticipated in 2027, the outlet reports.

However, Apple faces established competition in the smart glasses category. Meta has emerged as arguably the most successful player in this space, with its Ray-Ban smart glasses gaining traction among consumers. Meanwhile, Snap is preparing to release its “Specs” augmented reality glasses later this year after recently spinning the project into a standalone company.

AI-Enhanced AirPods Join Product Lineup

In addition to the smart glasses and pendant, Apple is working on AirPods with new artificial intelligence capabilities. Bloomberg’s report suggests these AI-enabled earbuds will represent another avenue for the company to deliver intelligent features to users through wearable technology. Specific features or functionality have not been disclosed.

Additionally, all three devices are being designed to function as iPhone accessories rather than standalone products. Siri will serve as a critical component of the user experience across the product line, according to the outlet. This approach aligns with Apple’s existing ecosystem strategy of tightly integrating hardware and software.

AI Wearables Race Intensifies

The reported acceleration of Apple’s AI wearable development reflects broader industry momentum toward intelligent, camera-equipped devices that can provide contextual assistance throughout the day. Tech companies are betting that consumers will embrace wearables that can see and interpret the world around them, offering information and assistance through AI-powered features.

Bloomberg describes the smart glasses as “more upscale and feature-rich” compared to the AirPods and AI pendant, suggesting a tiered approach to the AI wearables category. This positioning could allow Apple to address different price points and use cases within the emerging market. The company has experience with premium wearable products through its Apple Watch line and the Vision Pro headset.

In contrast to the glasses, fewer details have emerged about the pendant and AI-enhanced AirPods. The camera-equipped pendant concept suggests capabilities similar to AI pins released by other companies, though specific features remain unclear. Authorities at Apple have not confirmed production timelines or release dates for these two products.

Apple did not respond to requests for additional information about its AI wearable development plans. The company’s actual release schedule and final product specifications may differ from current reports as development continues.