Apple Bets Big on AI Wearables With Three New Devices

Tech giant Apple appears to be doubling down on artificial intelligence with not one, but three new wearable devices currently in development. According to multiple reports, these include AI-powered smart glasses, a clip-on AI assistant (dubbed "AI pin" or pendant), and camera-equipped AirPods - all designed to work seamlessly with iPhones and an upcoming smarter version of Siri.

The Screenless Smart Glasses Challenge

The most ambitious project appears to be Apple's take on smart glasses, positioned as direct competition to Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. But Apple seems determined to differentiate its product in several key ways:

• No screen design: Unlike most smart glasses that incorporate displays, Apple's version will rely entirely on voice interaction through Siri
• Premium materials: Sources suggest Apple is using higher-end materials than competitors to justify premium pricing
• Advanced camera system: Dual cameras will handle both photography/videography and environmental awareness for Siri
• Practical AI features: Real-time translation, text-to-calendar additions, and context-aware reminders highlight the focus on utility over gimmicks

The glasses are reportedly targeting a late 2026 production start for possible 2027 availability.

The Subtle AI Companion: Pin/Pendant Concept

Perhaps the most intriguing development is Apple's exploration of an AI pin or pendant - essentially a small wearable assistant that clips onto clothing or bags. Still in early stages, this device would feature:

• Minimalist design prioritizing discretion over flashiness
• Basic camera for environmental awareness (not photography)
• Microphone for Siri interaction
• Speaker for two-way conversation

The pin would function primarily as an iPhone accessory rather than standalone device, handling basic queries while offloading complex processing to paired phones.

Camera-Equipped AirPods Coming Soonest?

The third piece of Apple's wearable puzzle appears closest to completion - AirPods with built-in cameras. Expected as early as this year:

• Low-resolution camera focused solely on information gathering
• Maintains traditional AirPods functionality while adding visual context
• Could enable new accessibility features alongside standard audio uses

Unlike the other wearables emphasizing novelty, these may represent evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes.

Key Points:

• All three devices will integrate visual understanding capabilities through cameras
• Each targets different use cases while sharing core iPhone/Siri integration
• Smart glasses represent Apple's boldest play against Meta's wearables dominance
• Products expected between late 2024 (AirPods) and 2027 (glasses) timeframe