Apple’s Ambitious Venture into AI Glasses Unveiled

Apple is developing new chips for “smart” glasses, more powerful Mac computers, and AI servers, according to Bloomberg. 

The publication reports that the company has “intensified efforts” to create a processor for smart glasses designed to compete with Meta Ray-Ban. 

Other semiconductors in development will enable future Mac computers and servers for Apple Intelligence artificial intelligence. 

The glasses processor is based on chips used in the Apple Watch, which consume less power than those in the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Certain components have been removed to enhance energy efficiency. 

The upcoming chip is intended to manage multiple cameras installed in the glasses, with mass production slated for late 2026 or early 2027. 

Bloomberg notes that Apple has been attempting to develop “smart” glasses for many years, while Meta and other companies have made strides in this area. Their gadgets can take photos, play audio, make phone calls, and interact with a voice assistant. 

Mark Zuckerberg’s company plans to release a premium model with a display later this year and AR glasses in 2027, the agency noted.

Apple is not yet focusing on augmented reality. Instead, it is exploring the use of glasses that scan the surrounding environment with cameras and rely on artificial intelligence to assist the user. 

The Cupertino-based company also intends to add cameras to AirPods and smartwatches, aiming to transform these products into AI tools. The Apple Watch is set to integrate a chip called Nevis, while AirPods will feature Glennie. These could appear in 2027. 

New server chips will aid in remotely processing Apple Intelligence requests and transmitting information to consumer devices. Currently, the company relies on the same processors used in Macs for this task. 

Meta’s New Glasses

Meanwhile, it has been revealed that Meta is working on “hypersensitive” software capable of recognizing people.

The company is reportedly developing two pairs of smart glasses under the internal names Aperol and Bellini, set for release next year. The firm recently revamped its privacy and security risk assessment processes to expedite product launches.

In addition to facial recognition, the software will be able to remind users to take their keys or buy groceries. Cameras and sensors will remain on continuously, allowing artificial intelligence to monitor all user activities. 

Meta is already testing similar functionality on released models, but experiments are limited by battery life. The company aims for its upcoming glasses and possibly headphones with cameras to operate for several hours on a single charge.

Positive Feedback

Meta introduced Meta Ray-Ban in September 2021, and three years later they received an update—real-time video processing with artificial intelligence. This allows users to ask the glasses questions about what they see. Additional features include reminders, translation, and integration with music apps.   

confession

Ray-Ban | Meta glasses are pure fire

The directional audio is surprisingly good, taking calls, voice control for photos and video capture ?

we don’t have Meta AI in europe yet, but I can imagine that being perfect

Bullish on the form factor/ approach pic.twitter.com/nRj5kqOVj7

— Linus Ekenstam (@LinusEkenstam) April 7, 2024

With Meta Ray-Ban, users can:

• take photos and record videos in 1080p resolution;
• listen to music, podcasts, and make calls;
• interact with the Meta AI assistant by voice;
• use a translator and receive explanations about objects in view;
• stream live on Instagram and Facebook.

Ray Ban Meta glasses came in, had to test out the video quality with a dab ? pic.twitter.com/diYFWiJLuZ

— headcoachesclub (@headcoachesclub) May 6, 2025

Meta Ray-Ban generally receives positive reviews. Criticisms include low battery life and the absence of certain features like Meta AI in specific regions. Users also express concerns about the potential for discreet recording and audio capture.

In July 2024, Mark Zuckerberg noted the growing popularity of smart glasses and stated that he envisions a future where everyone wears AI-equipped devices.