Apple Plans Smart Glasses and Camera-Equipped AirPods for 2027

According to a recent Bloomberg report by Mark Gurman, Apple is developing smart glasses with artificial intelligence capabilities that may be more affordable than initially expected. Additionally, Gurman forecasts that Apple will release AirPods with built-in cameras in 2027, marking a significant expansion of the company's wearable technology lineup.

Source: 9TO5Mac

Apple's Smart Glasses Project

In his PowerOn newsletter published on April 27th, Gurman revealed that Apple's smart glasses project is internally codenamed "N50." The company reportedly aims to create what would be the industry's leading augmented reality (AR) glasses, though the full realization of this vision is expected to take several years.

What's particularly noteworthy in Gurman's report is the suggestion that Apple's smart glasses will be priced "at a level that is not burdensome" for consumers. This pricing strategy would represent a departure from Apple's typical premium positioning for first-generation products and could help drive wider adoption.

Competing with Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

Apple's entry into the smart glasses market comes after Meta has already established a presence with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have gained considerable popularity. The Meta-Ray Ban collaboration has successfully integrated cameras, microphones, AI assistant capabilities, and speakers into a conventional glasses form factor.

Camera Functionality Still Under Consideration

Previous reports from Gurman suggested that Apple might exclude camera functionality from its smart glasses due to privacy concerns. However, technology news outlet NinetoFiveMac indicates that no final decision has been made on this feature. The inclusion or exclusion of camera capabilities will likely be a critical design and functionality decision as development progresses.

Camera-Equipped AirPods on the Horizon

In addition to smart glasses, Gurman reports that Apple is developing AirPods with built-in cameras. These advanced earbuds are expected to implement visual intelligence technology that would leverage the camera input, potentially opening up new use cases for Apple's popular audio accessory.

The integration of cameras into AirPods represents a significant evolution for the product line, which has primarily focused on audio features and health monitoring capabilities until now. This development suggests Apple is exploring ways to expand its wearable ecosystem beyond current functionality boundaries.

Timeline for Release

According to Gurman's forecast, both the smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods are targeting a release around 2027. This timeline gives Apple several years to refine the technology, address privacy concerns, and develop the AI capabilities necessary to make these devices compelling to consumers.

The 2027 release window also indicates that Apple is taking a methodical approach to entering the smart glasses market, potentially learning from the challenges faced by earlier entrants like Google Glass.

The Future of Apple's Wearable Strategy

These developments signal Apple's continued commitment to expanding its wearable technology ecosystem. By adding smart glasses and enhanced AirPods to its portfolio alongside Apple Watch and current AirPods models, the company appears to be pursuing a comprehensive strategy for AI-powered devices that can be worn throughout the day.

If Apple succeeds in delivering these products at accessible price points as Gurman suggests, it could dramatically accelerate the adoption of augmented reality and visual intelligence technologies in everyday consumer products.