Apple is working on new smart glasses with a camera, similar to the Ray-Ban glasses developed by Meta, and they could hit the market much sooner than expected. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the company is already developing a dedicated chip for the device, with mass production expected to begin in late 2025 or sometime in 2026, with a view to selling by Christmas or 2027 (of course, it depends on Donald Trump’s tariffs, too ).
Unlike the ambitious full-arrangement augmented reality glasses project Apple has dreamed of for years, this first model is said to focus on more accessible and energy-efficient features, much like what we’ve already seen with the Ray-Ban Meta. It would be a wearable device with built-in cameras, smart features, and a low-power battery based on the technology used in the Apple Watch.
A proprietary chip and integrated cameras
The new chip, designed specifically for these glasses, will dispense with the energy-intensive components found in devices like the iPhone or iPad. Its goal: to achieve maximum efficiency without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, this processor will be optimized to control multiple built-in cameras, targeting functions such as photo capture, video recording, or even real-time visual recognition or traffic utilities.
The chip will be produced by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Apple’s long-time partner for its most advanced silicon developments. If the deadlines are met, we could see this new wearable on the market within two years, thus consolidating a new category within the company’s product ecosystem.
Of course, we couldn’t find anything as advanced either, since it’s not expected to have a price as high as the current Vision Pro.
These glasses won’t be the only wearable to receive a “smart” update. According to Gurman, Apple is also working on adding cameras to its AirPods and Apple Watch. For these devices, the company is already developing the “Nevis” and “Glennie” chips, both aimed at expanding artificial intelligence capabilities within everyday products. This, of course, is in addition to the heart rate sensors that will soon be included in the family.
This is all part of Apple’s broader strategy to integrate AI capabilities into its catalog, competing directly with initiatives like Meta, which has long been pushing its own smart glasses as a gateway to the metaverse.
Although the Apple Vision Pro already marks the beginning of the mixed reality era for the company, its high price tag ($3,500 USD) keeps it out of reach for the general public. The new camera glasses, on the other hand, are said to represent a more accessible and practical option, ideal for everyday use. They’re also a potential fashion accessory for upcoming summers at the beach.
