Apple ramps up development of AI powered smart glasses to rival Meta

With Meta leveraging Llama and Samsung using Gemini to power next-gen glasses, Apple’s reliance on external AI tools has raised internal scepticism about its preparedness to lead in the fast-evolving wearable tech space

Apple is reportedly fast-tracking the development of its first smart glasses, signalling a renewed push into the wearable tech market amid slowing iPhone sales and tepid reception of its Vision Pro headset. According to a Bloomberg report, the company aims to have functional prototypes ready by the end of 2025, with a possible product launch expected next year.

The glasses, which are internally codenamed N50, are being developed by Apple’s Vision Products Group—the same team behind the Vision Pro. The project has now reportedly been folded into a broader initiative known as N401, which explores a range of wearable AR and AI-enabled devices.

Apple eyes AI wearable edge

Designed to rival Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses and other AI-integrated wearables, Apple’s version is expected to feature built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers. These components will enable the device to interpret its surroundings, support real-time voice interaction via Siri, and offer features like hands-free calling, live translation, navigation, and media control.

The move comes as major tech players are increasingly embedding artificial intelligence into their wearable devices. Meta’s latest glasses, for example, benefit from integration with its Llama AI models, while Samsung’s Project Moohan is expected to leverage Google's Gemini platform. In contrast, Apple is still relying on third-party tools like Google Lens and OpenAI technologies for its Visual Intelligence features, raising concerns internally about its AI competitiveness.

Camera-equipped AirPods in sight

Earlier reports suggest Apple has begun designing a dedicated chip tailored for the smart glasses to improve performance and battery life. Manufacturing of the chip could begin as early as 2026. However, as with many of Apple’s exploratory hardware projects, there is a possibility the product may never reach market if it fails to meet the company’s high design and functionality standards.

Apple’s shift in focus toward smart glasses and other experimental wearables also follows the discontinuation of plans for Apple Watch models with built-in cameras. Interestingly, the company is said to still be exploring AirPods equipped with imaging capabilities, hinting at a broader ambition to integrate cameras and AI across its product ecosystem.

Despite uncertainties, the development of smart glasses represents Apple’s attempt to redefine its wearable strategy by combining AI, AR, and mobility in a lightweight form factor. Whether it can deliver a compelling product in time to rival Meta and Samsung remains to be seen.