Apple Inc. is reportedly developing at least three new wearable devices powered by advanced artificial intelligence, according to industry sources. The projects, which include smart glasses and a camera pendant, are said to be in various early stages of research and development within the company.
The initiative represents a significant expansion of Apple’s product ecosystem beyond its current lineup of smartwatches, headphones, and mixed-reality headsets. The core intelligence for these rumored devices is expected to be driven by a next-generation version of Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant.
Reported Devices in Development
Information suggests the tech giant is exploring a pair of smart glasses that would offer audio and visual enhancements through AI, distinct from the high-end Vision Pro mixed-reality headset. A second product is described as a wearable camera device, potentially designed to be worn as a pendant, focused on capturing images and video through an AI-powered lens.
While specific features and designs remain confidential, the common thread linking these projects is a deep integration of on-device and cloud-based artificial intelligence. This AI would process environmental data, user commands, and media in real time to provide contextual assistance and new forms of interaction.
The Role of Enhanced Siri
Analysts note that the development of such devices is contingent upon a substantial leap in AI capabilities, particularly for Siri. The assistant, which has faced criticism for lagging behind competitors, is undergoing a major overhaul. Apple is expected to unveil significant AI enhancements at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) later this year.
These improvements are believed to be foundational for new hardware categories. A more powerful, proactive, and context-aware Siri could manage device functions, interpret visual data from cameras, and offer personalized suggestions without direct user input, making novel wearable forms practical.
Market Context and Challenges
The move into AI-centric wearables aligns with broader industry trends, where companies are seeking the “next big thing” beyond the smartphone. However, the market for smart glasses and dedicated wearable cameras has seen several high-profile failures from other manufacturers, highlighting challenges in design, battery life, privacy, and finding compelling consumer use cases.
Apple’s approach is typically characterized by entering a market later than competitors but with a focus on refined integration and user experience. The company’s existing expertise in custom silicon, like its A-series and M-series chips, could provide a performance advantage for running complex AI models directly on a small wearable device.
As with all unannounced Apple projects, these devices may never reach the commercial market. The company is known for prototyping numerous concepts and canceling those that do not meet its strict standards for quality and market readiness.
Next Steps and Industry Expectations
Industry observers do not expect an imminent announcement for these specific AI wearables. The most immediate development will be the preview of Apple’s updated AI software platform, expected in June. The performance and features of this software will offer the first concrete indication of the company’s readiness to support a new generation of intelligent devices.
Following the software reveal, attention will turn to Apple’s hardware event schedule in the fall. While new iPhones with AI features are anticipated, any reveal of entirely new wearable categories would likely come in 2025 or later, pending successful internal testing and development milestones.
Source: Various Industry Reports
