Apple developing AirTag-sized AI ‘Pin’ and launch possibly by 2027

Apple is reportedly working on a compact, pin-like wearable with cameras, microphones and AI capabilities, targeting a possible 2027 launch as it looks to strengthen its position in the emerging AI hardware market.

Apple may be laying the groundwork for a new category of wearable devices, according to a report by The Information, which claims the company is experimenting with an AirTag-sized AI-powered wearable that could debut as early as 2027. The project is still at an early stage and may not ultimately reach the market, the report noted.

The proposed device, described as a thin circular pin, is said to be designed for hands-free use and ambient awareness. If launched, it would mark Apple’s most ambitious step yet into AI-focused hardware beyond smartphones, watches and headphones.

Compact design with cameras and audio sensors

People familiar with the matter told The Information that the wearable would feature two front-facing cameras — one standard and one wide-angle — intended to capture photos and video of the user’s surroundings. It is also expected to include multiple microphones to pick up ambient sound, along with a built-in speaker for audio feedback.

The device is reportedly planned to be roughly the same size as an AirTag, though slightly thicker to accommodate its components. It may include a physical button on the edge and use a magnetic charging system similar to the Apple Watch. Engineers are said to be aiming for a lightweight, unobtrusive form factor that can be worn discreetly on clothing.

While details remain limited, it is still unclear whether the wearable would function independently or rely on companion devices such as an iPhone, AirPods or Apple’s rumoured smart glasses.

AI competition and market challenges

The report suggests Apple is accelerating development timelines to stay competitive as rivals move into AI wearables. OpenAI is expected to introduce its first hardware product in 2026, intensifying pressure on major tech companies to define the next wave of personal computing.

However, the market has proven difficult. Humane’s AI Pin, launched in 2024 by former Apple employees, failed to gain traction, reportedly selling fewer than 10,000 units before parts of the company were acquired by HP. The product faced criticism over performance issues and limited battery life, raising questions about consumer readiness for standalone AI wearables.

Apple’s reported exploration of the pin comes amid a broader reset of its AI strategy. The company has faced delays in delivering promised AI features, recently restructured leadership in its AI division, and announced plans to integrate Google’s Gemini technology into future versions of Siri.

Separately, Bloomberg has reported that Apple is considering replacing Siri’s traditional interface with a more conversational chatbot-style experience in a future version of iOS, potentially iOS 27. Together, these moves point to Apple’s renewed push to reassert itself in artificial intelligence — both in software and hardware.