According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, in the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Apple is actively testing at least four different styles of frames for its upcoming smart glasses project. Apple is counting on its superior design taste to stand out from rivals like the Ray-Man Meta Glasses.
The report indicates Apple is evaluating the designs and plans to launch several, in multiple colors, somewhat similar to how it launched a range of different watches when the Apple Watch debuted in 2015 …
As a reminder, these glasses are not augmented reality. They are simple wearable spectacles that feature integrated cameras, microphones and sensors. They’ll be able to relay notifications from your phone, capture personal photos and videos, play music, and enable interactions with AI features like upgraded Siri and visual intelligence capabilities.
It’s kind of like a combination of Apple Watch and AirPods in terms of functionality. The glasses will pair with a connected iPhone to power most of their features, making them an iPhone accessory even more than the Watch is.
Gurman says the four designs for the Apple glasses currently in testing include:
- A large rectangular frame, reminiscent of Ray-Ban Wayfarers
- A slimmer rectangular design, similar to the glasses worn by Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook
- Larger oval or circular frames
- A smaller, more refined oval or circular option
Apple is exploring a range of finishes, including black, ocean blue and light brown. As with AirPods and the Apple Watch, the goal is to create a design that is instantly recognizable.
Top comment by Les Inanchy
As one of those lucky people who has to wear glasses all the time from when I wake up to when I go to sleep, this is a natural in terms of applying some extra technology. Despite being a confirmed, Apple user, when I had to get new glasses I decided to try out the Meta Ray-Ban glasses. One feature I use all the time is the speakers to listen to music when I’m walking. Not as good as AirPods, but an easy convenience. I also use the camera to take short videos and photos since I walk with a cane and reaching into my pocket to get my iPhone out to take a picture is not the easiest thing in the world. I will be buying these when they come out as long as I can get my prescription lenses. Hopefully, the technology will improve overtime and provide even more functionality.
Gurman says the front cameras on the glasses will be arranged in an oval pattern, surrounded by indicator lights. This is another design point that will separate Apple’s product from its rivals.
Notably, rather than something common like plastic, Apple is planning on using acetate, a “durable” and “luxurious” material, for the main body of the glasses.
The smart glasses project is purportedly on track to be announced either later this year or early in 2027, with an actual release in spring or summer 2027. Apple is still believed to be working on advanced augmented reality glasses with integrated displays, but the timeline for this is much further out.
Nearer term, the glasses form part of Apple’s strategy to launch a bevy of AI-centric devices in the coming years. Other products on the horizon include AirPods with integrated cameras, a smart home display, and a wearable pendant with cameras.
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