Apple's Smart Glasses: A 2027 Release with AI-Powered Features

Spatial IntelligenceSocial Media & Digital PlatformsWearables

Apple's smart glasses are finally on the horizon, with a 2027 release date and features that will make them a game-changer in the tech industry.

TL;DR
• Apple's smart glasses are expected to release in 2027.
• The device will have features like photo and video capture, audio playback, and turn-by-turn directions.
• Apple's smart glasses will differ from Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses in terms of design and functionality.

Summary
Apple plans to unveil its first smart glasses in late 2026 and ship them in early 2027, targeting a 3‑5 million unit launch in 2027.
• Release window: 2026 preview, 2027 retail.
• Design: acetate frames, four styles, no display, camera/microphone/speaker focus.
• Chip: custom N401, derived from Apple Watch S‑series, power‑efficient, on‑device AI.
• Pricing: likely upper‑mid tier, comparable to Meta’s $299‑$499 range.

Apple’s strategy bypasses a science‑experiment phase, opting for an AI‑first accessory that integrates with the existing iPhone ecosystem. The device will support photo/video capture, spatial video, live translation, object identification, and gesture‑controlled Siri, with some functions tethered to the iPhone via Bluetooth.

The absence of an in‑lens display means true augmented reality will arrive later, possibly in a 2028 second‑generation model. Apple’s focus on fashion‑forward, AI‑centric design aims to capture consumers already comfortable with Apple’s ecosystem, while Meta and Google continue iterating on their own wearable lines.

Key watchpoints include the late‑2026 unveiling, Q2 2027 mass production, and early‑2027 retail launch. Any delay in production could push the launch to late 2027 or 2028, affecting competitive dynamics in the emerging smart glasses market.

Apple's smart glasses are a significant step forward in the tech industry, and their release in 2027 will be closely watched by consumers and competitors alike.