Apple might introduce Meta-like smart glasses and AirPods with camera in 2027

After AirPods 4, Apple is eyeing to release AirPods with cameras into the market. According to Bloomberg's Mark German, the company plans to launch them in 2027.

In Short

• Apple developing smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods
• Camera-eqipped AirPods will enhance the visual intelligence feature
• Launch expected no earlier than 2027, still in development

Apple is developing new vision-based products, including smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods. These innovative devices are expected to resemble Meta's Ray-Ban collaboration, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. However, their launch is not imminent, with a projected release date of 2027 at the earliest. The products are still in development, and there's a possibility they may not materialise. Apple's expansion into wearable technology and augmented reality aims to enhance user experience, but fans will have to wait patiently for these cutting-edge products. Gurman's insights provide a glimpse into Apple's future plans, underscoring the company's focus on innovative tech solutions.

Apple aims to recoup its multibillion-dollar investment in Apple Vision Pro's visual intelligence by integrating the technology into additional products. Following the iPhone 16's camera control announcement, Apple plans to introduce smart glasses with built-in cameras, speakers, and microphones, similar to Meta's popular Ray-Ban glasses (priced from $299). These glasses won't offer full augmented reality displays but will leverage visual intelligence for enhanced functionality.

Additionally, Apple is exploring AirPods with cameras, a concept previously reported. However, the appeal of outward-facing cameras on earbuds remains unclear, potentially raising privacy concerns. Despite this, Apple continues experimenting with the form factor to incorporate visual intelligence features.

By expanding visual intelligence across multiple products, Apple seeks to maximise its research and development investment. The strategic move could establish the company as a leader in wearable technology and augmented reality. The smart glasses, in particular, offer an attractive prospect, given the success of Meta's Ray-Ban collaboration.

The development of these products underscores Apple's commitment to innovation and its focus on creating seamless, interconnected ecosystems. As the company pushes the boundaries of wearable technology, consumers can expect more sophisticated and integrated devices in the future. With Apple's reputation for refinement and design, these emerging products are likely to generate significant interest upon release, anticipated to be no earlier than 2027.

Apple to introduce these products this month

After its annual flagship launch, the iPhone 16 series, the upcoming event is expected to reveal more hardware products. Along with new devices, the company might also unveil iOS 18.1 software. Well, yes we know all about the iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence features, but the October event could mark the entry of a stable version of iOS 18.1 and Apple AI for the public.

At Apple's October event, the company is expected to introduce the new M4 Macs. Rumours suggest a redesigned M4 Mac mini might also be revealed, alongside a new M4 24-inch iMac. The popular MacBook Pro will be updated with the M4 chip, and Apple is set to offer three versions: the base M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max. These updates will apply to all three current MacBook Pro models, including the entry-level 14-inch and the premium 14- and 16-inch versions.

Along with the Mac updates, Apple may also refresh its iPad lineup. While the iPad Pro was already updated this year, the entry-level iPads and iPad Mini could see updates. The iPad 11th generation and iPad Mini 7th generation are likely to be unveiled at the event.