As major tech companies race to define the future of smart wearables, Apple’s long-rumored smart glasses are drawing increasing attention. According to 9to5Mac, citing sources, Apple Glasses are expected to be unveiled in 2026, though shipments may not begin until 2027, with rumored features including a built-in camera, Apple Intelligence–related functions, voice interaction via Siri, and more.

As 9to5Mac notes, Apple is now said to be developing an AI-focused “Apple Glasses” device—one that does not include AR features—driven in part by the broader AI trend and Meta’s momentum with its Ray-Ban lineup. The first model is expected to be without a built-in display, while Apple is reportedly working on a higher-end version that will feature a display, the report adds.

Further details suggest the glasses will use an S-class chip from the Apple Watch, designed for heightened power efficiency and to manage multiple cameras enabling visual-intelligence features similar to those on the iPhone, as 9to5Mac indicates.

The report also highlights that the revamped Siri will play a central role in the Apple Glasses experience. In addition, the report indicates that Apple is expected to offload some processing tasks to a paired iPhone, since the glasses will be positioned as an iPhone accessory, much like the Apple Watch.

The AI smart-glasses market is poised to intensify. Reuters notes that although Ray-Ban Meta glasses currently dominate the AI eyewear space, their first-mover advantage may diminish as competitors roll out more products. According to Reuters, Alibaba launched its new Quark AI-powered glasses in China in November—one of the few markets where Ray-Ban Meta is not available. Google is also developing its own model in partnership with Warby Parker and luxury group Kering, with its first product expected in 2026, the report notes.

Meta Reportedly Resets VR Pricing Strategy Amid Product Delay

Meanwhile, as another major player in smart wearables, Meta is reportedly planning to increase prices for its virtual-reality devices, according to an internal memo reviewed by Business Insider. The memo indicates that the company intends to position future devices at higher price points and may shift to a slower hardware release cycle. The company’s flagship VR headset, the Meta Quest 3, is priced at $499.99, while its entry-level model sells for $299.99, Business Insider adds.

The move comes as Meta has reportedly delayed the launch of its new mixed-reality glasses, codenamed “Phoenix,” shifting the release window from the second half of 2026 to the first half of 2027, as Business Insider highlights.

(Photo credit: Apple)

TrendForce 2025 Near-Eye Display Market Trend and Technology Analysis
Publication Date : 8/29, 2025
Language : Traditional Chinese / English
Format : PDF
Page Number: 168