Apple is reportedly preparing a significant push into artificial intelligence, aiming to revitalize its position in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. This initiative comes after a somewhat rocky rollout of the Apple Intelligence platform in 2024, where certain features were limited in functionality and the new Siri remained unavailable. The company is now focusing on developing three new products heavily leveraging AI capabilities, with a particular emphasis on wearable technology.
The core of Apple’s strategy appears to be shifting towards AI-powered devices that move beyond traditional displays. Instead of relying on screens, the focus is on integrating cameras, sensors, and audio processing to deliver a more immersive and intuitive user experience. This approach signals a potential departure from Apple’s current product lines and a commitment to exploring new form factors for AI integration.
Smart Glasses Without a Display
According to reports from Bloomberg and other sources, Apple could unveil its first smart glasses as early as late 2026 or early 2027. Unlike the Vision Pro, which offers a mixed-reality experience, these glasses are envisioned as a display-less device. The design will incorporate cameras, microphones, and speakers, with the processing power largely handled by a connected iPhone – a similar architecture to the original Apple Watch in 2015. A separate, longer-term project involving projection technology is also reportedly underway.
A Miniature, AI-Powered Wearable
Apple is also developing a very small, AI-focused wearable, roughly the size of an AirTag. This device, intended to function as a mobile AI assistant operated through voice commands, bears a resemblance to the now-discontinued AI Pin from Humane, which was discontinued after just ten months. The wearable is expected to feature an aluminum and glass enclosure, equipped with sensors including two cameras with different fields of view, microphones, and speakers. Wireless charging via a magnetic back is anticipated, with a potential launch no earlier than 2027.
AirPods with Enhanced Spatial Awareness
Perhaps the most imminent addition to Apple’s AI-driven lineup is a new AirPods model slated for release in 2026. This iteration will incorporate infrared cameras, similar to the Face ID system found in iPhones. This addition would enable air gesture control and more precise spatial positioning, potentially enhancing spatial audio capabilities. Insiders suggest the AirPods will be able to “see around you,” though it remains unclear whether this will be a successor to the AirPods Pro 3 or an entirely new variant. The projected price point is €249, equivalent to approximately $270 USD as of February 19, 2026.
The integration of infrared cameras into the AirPods represents a significant step towards creating more contextually aware audio experiences. The ability to understand a user’s environment and gestures could unlock new possibilities for hands-free control and personalized audio delivery.
Apple’s renewed focus on AI comes at a critical juncture, as competitors like OpenAI continue to push the boundaries of generative AI. The company’s success will depend on its ability to seamlessly integrate AI into its existing ecosystem and deliver compelling new experiences that differentiate its products. The development of these three new devices – smart glasses, a miniature AI wearable, and AI-enhanced AirPods – signals a clear commitment to that goal.
Looking ahead, the next key checkpoint will be the unveiling of the new AirPods model in 2026, followed by the anticipated launch of the smart glasses in late 2026 or early 2027. The success of these products will likely shape Apple’s AI strategy for years to come, and will be closely watched by both the tech industry and consumers alike.
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