Apple appears to be making significant strides in the wearable technology space beyond its Vision Pro headset. According to recent reports, the tech giant is actively developing smart glasses that will leverage Apple Intelligence capabilities to compete directly with Meta's increasingly popular Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Project N50 Takes Shape
Apple's smart glasses project, reportedly codenamed N50, is still in early development stages but represents a strategic move for the company. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in his latest PowerOn newsletter, Apple is racing to bring this product to market. Unlike the bulky and expensive Vision Pro, these glasses would adopt a more conventional form factor with a significantly more accessible price point. The glasses are being designed as an Apple Intelligence device that can analyze the surrounding environment and provide contextual information to wearers.
Apple Smart Glasses (Rumored)
- Codename: N50
- Focus: Apple Intelligence integration
- Expected features: Environmental analysis, AI-powered information delivery, microphones, speakers, cameras
- Target release: Potentially 2027
- Form factor: Similar to conventional glasses (like Meta's Ray-Bans)
- Price: Unknown, but expected to be more affordable than Vision Pro
Features and Functionality
While not offering true augmented reality capabilities like the Vision Pro, Apple's smart glasses would incorporate various sensors and technologies to enable AI-powered features. Similar to Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, Apple's version is expected to include microphones, speakers, and cameras, though the company is reportedly concerned about addressing privacy issues that come with camera-equipped wearables. The glasses would focus on environmental analysis and information delivery rather than overlaying digital content onto the real world.
Competitive Landscape
Meta currently dominates the smart glasses market with its Ray-Ban collaboration, which offers AI features, cameras, and audio capabilities in a stylish, lightweight form factor. According to Gurman, Meta isn't standing still either—the company reportedly aims to launch an even more advanced version of its smart glasses by October, potentially featuring a small display with a price tag of USD $1,000 or more. This intensifying competition suggests both companies see significant potential in the smart eyewear category.
Competitive Landscape
- Meta's current Ray-Ban smart glasses: Camera, microphone, speakers, Meta AI integration
- Meta's rumored next-gen glasses: Small display, USD $1,000+ price point, potential October release
Timeline and Strategy
While Apple's smart glasses appear to be a priority project, consumers shouldn't expect them anytime soon. Previous reports suggested a potential 2027 launch window for both the smart glasses and rumored camera-equipped AirPods. This timeline indicates that Apple is taking a methodical approach to development, potentially waiting for technology to mature enough to meet its standards for user experience and design.
Apple's Wearable Expansion
The smart glasses project represents part of a broader push by Apple to expand its wearable technology portfolio. Along with the glasses, Apple is reportedly developing camera-equipped AirPods, suggesting the company sees significant opportunities in AI-enhanced wearable devices. These products could create new ways for users to interact with Apple Intelligence features beyond phones, tablets, and computers.
Market Potential
If Apple can successfully deliver smart glasses that balance functionality, style, and privacy concerns, the product could potentially grow into a significant business line. Some analysts believe AR glasses could eventually become as important as the iPhone if properly executed. However, the challenge lies in creating a product that offers compelling features while maintaining the aesthetic appeal and comfort necessary for everyday wear—something even Meta is still refining with its Ray-Ban partnership.