According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple is “expediting” its work on three upcoming wearable devices, which include smart glasses, an AI pendant, and AirPods with cameras. These devices are being developed with the Siri digital assistant in mind.
### AI Pendant, Glasses, and Camera-Equipped AirPods
The smart glasses are anticipated to come with a high-resolution camera for taking photos and videos, aimed at rivaling Meta’s smart glasses. Apple has allegedly made notable strides in the development of these glasses recently. Importantly, the glasses will lack a display and will instead feature speakers, microphones, and cameras.
Prototypes of the glasses are equipped with two camera lenses: one for capturing high-resolution visuals and another for “computer vision” to offer contextual information about the environment. This contextual awareness could improve functionalities akin to Visual Intelligence on the iPhone, facilitating more accurate navigation within Apple Maps and better integration with Reminders. The objective is for the glasses to function as a continuous AI companion, capable of comprehending a user’s environment and actions in real-time.
Apple is creating its own frames for the glasses in a variety of sizes and colors, choosing to handle the design internally after evaluating collaborations with other firms. Initial prototypes connected via a cable to a separate battery pack and an iPhone, but recent iterations have incorporated components into the frame, utilizing high-quality materials for a luxurious feel. Apple is also contemplating releasing the device in additional styles over time.
Furthermore, Apple is developing an AI pendant device described as a thin, circular disc made of aluminum and glass, which includes two cameras, a speaker, and three microphones. This device is thought to be reminiscent of the unsuccessful Humane AI pin but will not feature a display or projection system. Instead, it will depend heavily on an iPhone for processing power.
The AI pendant is intended to function as a constant camera for the smartphone, complete with a microphone for Siri commands. Some Apple staff refer to it as the “eyes and ears” of the phone. There is ongoing discussion about the possibility of incorporating a speaker for direct dialogue with the device, allowing users to interact without having to reach for their iPhone or wear AirPods.
Apple envisions that users will wear the AI pin clipped to their attire or as a necklace. Nevertheless, the product is still in the early phases of development and might ultimately be canceled, although there are prospects for a launch as soon as next year.
Finally, Apple is also advancing its efforts on AirPods equipped with cameras, which may be introduced as early as this year.
### Conclusion
Apple’s venture into wearable technology with smart glasses, an AI pendant, and camera-equipped AirPods marks a significant effort to augment user engagement through AI and contextual awareness. While the smart glasses seem promising, the practicality of the AI pendant remains in question. The success of these products will significantly hinge on improvements in Siri’s capabilities and seamless incorporation within Apple’s ecosystem.