Apple about to launchSmart glassesThis matter has been circulating for several years, and with news earlier this year indicating Apple is accelerating development of AI wearable devicesAfter that, leaks started pouring in, and Gurman revealed even more details in his latest “Power On” newsletter. Apple is currently testing four frame designs, material options, and color schemes for its smart glasses, suggesting a launch is truly imminent—possibly as early as the end of this year.
Image source:9to5Mac
Apple Smart Glasses Could Debut by Year-End! 4 Frame Designs, Upgraded Siri, AI Integration with iPhone
According to foreign outlet 9to5MacThis time around, Gurman’s leak is quite comprehensive, covering aspects like design, materials, and feature positioning. Below is a summary of the key points.
First, regarding the frame design, according to reports, Apple is currently internally testing at least four different styles of frames:
- The first style is a large-sized square frame, with a shape similar to the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer.
- The second style is a more slender rectangular design, similar in style to the glasses that Apple CEO Tim Cook typically wears.
- The third type is larger round or oval frames.
- The fourth type is a smaller, more refined round or oval style.
In short, Apple is experimenting with both square and round designs, each in two sizes, to find the optimal balance between distinctive aesthetics and comfortable wearability.
Regarding materials, Apple chose to use “acetate” for the frame body rather than the plastic commonly found in typical smart glasses.
Cellulose acetate is a favored material among many high-end independent eyewear brands, as it offers better texture, durability, and color application than plastic. Plus, it develops a natural sheen over time, unlike plastic which tends to yellow with age. This also shows Apple’s intention to position itself in the premium segment, differentiating itself from competitors through material quality.
For the color scheme, Apple is reportedly considering three options: black, ocean blue, and light brown.
As for the camera configuration, Gurman mentions that this smart glasses will feature a camera module on the frame, with the lenses arranged in an oval and surrounded by indicator lights to alert those around that the glasses are recording. Apple’s design goal is to make these glasses highly recognizable, just like when AirPods and Apple Watch were first launched, making them instantly identifiable as Apple products.
These smart glasses will also feature a microphone, various sensors, the ability to take photos and videos, play music, receive iPhone notifications, and support an upgraded Siri voice assistant and Apple Intelligence’s visual intelligence features.
However, it’s important to note that Apple’s glasses won’t feature any display, so you won’t see augmented reality imagery on the lenses.
As for the most critical launch timing, according to Gurman’s reports, Apple is currently targeting late 2026 or early 2027 for the official unveiling of this smart glasses, with mass production expected to start as early as December 2026, and actual retail availability likely falling in spring or summer 2027.
Source: KOCPC Chinese