Apple has a range of software and service launches set for December, but any new hardware offerings are expected to debut next year. Among the company’s speculated products for 2026, one is bound to attract significant interest: Apple Glasses.
## Glasses Expected to Be Revealed in 2026 as Apple’s Latest Product Category
It is rare for Apple to introduce products in entirely new categories. Each year, the company rolls out various new hardware, but we typically see updated iPhones, iPads, Macs, and items within other established lines. The most recent “brand new” product category was Apple Vision Pro. However, rumors suggest that another completely new introduction could occur in 2026: Apple Glasses (or possibly ‘Apple Vision’).
While the product may not actually be available until 2027, Bloomberg indicates that Apple Glasses could be showcased this year as an early glimpse. This advanced reveal often occurs with entirely new product categories. For instance, Vision Pro and Apple Watch were both introduced more than six months before they became available.
The launch of a completely new product category will generate considerable excitement. Additionally, Apple Glasses could warrant extra attention for two further reasons:
1. Making smart glasses more widely accepted
2. Apple’s inaugural AI-driven product
## Apple May Make Smart Glasses More Widely Accepted
Smart glasses are gaining traction, yet they still belong to their nascent stage. Ray-Ban Meta currently leads the market, but they still cater to a niche, early-adopter audience. However, Apple’s entry into the smart glasses market could significantly elevate the category’s mainstream appeal.
The company’s history in this domain is impressive. The iPod, iPad, and Apple Watch were not the “first” in their respective categories, but they significantly contributed to the success of those categories. Apple Glasses could follow suit—though success is not guaranteed. The product may mirror the trajectory of Apple Vision Pro, which hasn’t made the anticipated impact on the VR landscape.
With a much lower price point, a user-friendly form factor, and positioning as an iPhone accessory, Apple Glasses are set to make a significant impact. Regardless of its actual performance, the mere presence of Apple Glasses will heighten awareness around the smart glasses market.
## Apple Glasses Will Be the Company’s Initial AI-Driven Product
Another factor contributing to the attention surrounding the product is its status as Apple’s first new AI-driven offering. For the past few years, Apple has claimed that new iPhones, iPads, and Macs are “designed for Apple Intelligence.” However, Glasses will rely heavily on Siri and AI capabilities unlike any preceding product—and it enters a hardware category that didn’t exist before the advent of AI.
The forthcoming AI enhancements to Siri will likely play a significant role in the Apple Glasses experience. Apple Glasses have a lot to offer. As a completely new product category with the potential to mainstream smart glasses, and as Apple’s first AI-focused introduction, they certainly deserve considerable attention.
The big question is: will that attention lead to success? Are you intrigued by Apple Glasses? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.
