Apple’s Next Big Bet? Smart Glasses could arrive in 2027 to challenge meta… Here’s what we know so far

Cupertino: While attention remains fixed on Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro lineup and its long-rumoured foldable iPhone, the tech giant is quietly preparing for its next major product category. According to a recent report, Apple is developing its first pair of smart glasses, with a launch expected by the end of 2027.

The move would put Apple in direct competition with Meta, which has already established itself in the AI-powered smart glasses segment through its wearable devices.

Apple Eyes the Growing Smart Glasses Market

The report suggests that Apple is accelerating development of its smart glasses as it looks to expand beyond smartphones and traditional consumer electronics.

Unlike virtual reality headsets, the upcoming wearable is expected to focus on everyday usability, offering features designed to complement the iPhone and Apple’s wider ecosystem.

One of Apple’s biggest advantages could be its seamless integration with iOS devices. Just as the Apple Watch works closely with the iPhone, the smart glasses are expected to offer a connected experience that could appeal to millions of existing Apple users.

Taking on Meta’s AI Glasses

Apple’s entry comes shortly after Meta introduced a more affordable version of its AI-powered smart glasses.

Priced from $299, Meta’s latest wearable features a 12MP camera, up to eight hours of battery life, built-in speakers and AI-powered features. The company has steadily expanded its presence in the wearable technology market through collaborations with eyewear manufacturers.

Apple, however, is reportedly planning a different strategy by launching its glasses under its own brand instead of relying on an external eyewear partner.

Industry analysts believe this approach could give Apple greater control over design, software integration and pricing.

Competition Is Heating Up

The smart glasses race is becoming increasingly competitive.

Apart from Meta, OpenAI is also believed to be developing its own line of AI-powered wearable devices.

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Adding to the intrigue, Paul Meade, who previously led Apple’s Vision Pro headset and smart glasses programme, recently left the company to join OpenAI.

Meade is expected to work alongside legendary former Apple designer Jony Ive on future AI hardware projects, further intensifying the competition between the two technology giants.

Leadership Changes Inside Apple

The report also points to broader organisational changes within Apple’s hardware division.

Following recent executive restructuring, several senior leaders have reportedly taken on new responsibilities as the company reshapes its hardware strategy.

These internal changes come as Apple continues investing heavily in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, spatial computing and wearable devices.

A New Chapter for Apple

Although Apple has not officially confirmed the existence of its smart glasses, reports suggest the company views wearable AI devices as a major growth opportunity beyond the iPhone.

If the project stays on schedule, Apple could officially enter the smart glasses market next year, setting the stage for a new rivalry with Meta in one of the fastest-growing segments of consumer technology.

For now, Apple fans will have to wait for official announcements, but the battle for the future of wearable computing is clearly beginning to take shape.