Apple is stepping up its game in the wearable tech arena with a bold move to release its first pair of AI-powered smart glasses by the end of 2025. The decision marks a significant shift in strategy as the company aims to compete directly with Meta’s popular Ray-Ban smart glasses.
According to Bloomberg, Apple plans to begin large-scale prototype production later this year. The smart glasses will come equipped with built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers, offering hands-free functionality powered by Siri. Users can expect features such as phone call support, music playback, turn-by-turn navigation, and live language translation.
Described by insiders as similar to Meta’s offering but with superior build quality, the device is being developed by Apple’s Vision Products Group, the same team behind the Vision Pro headset.
Despite the excitement, internal concerns remain about Apple’s current standing in artificial intelligence. Unlike Meta and Android-based competitors that leverage robust AI platforms like Llama and Google Gemini, Apple has so far relied on Google Lens and OpenAI technology for real-world analysis via the iPhone. The company is expected to introduce its own AI tools alongside the smart glasses to bridge this gap.
In a related move, Apple has reportedly halted development of an Apple Watch with an integrated camera. However, innovation efforts continue in other areas, including AirPods equipped with camera functionality.
With the wearable tech landscape evolving rapidly, Apple’s upcoming smart glasses could represent a major leap in how users experience augmented reality, AI, and everyday digital convenience. This product could be a defining moment in Apple’s journey to shape the future of smart wearables.
