Apple is intensifying its focus on artificial intelligence and wearable technology, evident through its creation of a variety of unique chips. A recent Bloomberg article indicates that the tech titan is in the process of designing custom processors for multiple upcoming devices, including its inaugural smart glasses — a clear indication that Apple remains committed to its vision for augmented reality wearables.
Differing from the company’s current Vision Pro mixed reality headset, these new smart glasses are anticipated to look like ordinary eyewear, akin to Ray-Ban’s Meta smart glasses. They will incorporate integrated cameras, speakers, and fundamental AI features.
The chipset powering these glasses is said to be a modified version of the Apple Watch processor, enhanced for even superior energy efficiency. Additionally, it will be able to handle multiple cameras, which Apple intends to incorporate into the glasses. Mass production for this chip is projected to start by late 2026 or early 2027, hinting at a possible product launch around that timeframe.
Apple is reportedly creating two versions of the smart glasses: one lightweight model aimed at simplicity and daily use, and another featuring more sophisticated augmented reality capabilities.
Alongside its ambitions in wearable technology, Apple is also developing new chips for its Mac range. This includes the forthcoming M6 and M7 processors, along with a more advanced chip currently known only by its project name, “Sotra.”
The company is also gearing up to venture into the AI server market with custom chips specifically designed for managing Apple Intelligence tasks. These chips are anticipated to launch in 2027 and will replace the existing reliance on high-end Mac processors, such as the M2 Ultra, for server-side AI processing. This transition could result in quicker response times and set the stage for more advanced AI functionalities in the future.
All these advancements highlight Apple’s dedication to enhancing its AI capabilities and expanding the horizons of wearable technology.