Apple Smart Glasses May Launch in 2026: Apple’s long-rumored smart glasses are starting to look real, with multiple reports pointing to a possible announcement in 2026.
- Recent Developments on Apple Smart Glasses:
- Release Timeline of Apple Smart Glasses:
- Apple Smart Glasses: Design and Comfort
- Apple Smart Glasses: AI, Cameras, and Siri
- Apple Smart Glasses: Audio and Connectivity
- Apple Smart Glasses: Battery and Charging
- Apple Smart Glasses: Pricing and Competition
- Should You Wait?
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s first smart glasses will focus on AI features instead of augmented reality displays. They’re expected to work as an iPhone accessory, putting them in direct competition with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Recent Developments on Apple Smart Glasses:
Reports over the past year suggest Apple is moving quickly. In May 2025, Gurman said Apple was “ramping up work” and planning to produce “large quantities of prototypes.” By October 2025, Apple reportedly paused work on a lighter Vision Pro model to focus more heavily on smart glasses.
In December 2025, 9to5Mac confirmed the first version would not include a display and would emphasize AI. Around the same time, Google and Warby Parker announced plans to launch competing AI glasses in 2026.
Release Timeline of Apple Smart Glasses:
Apple is expected to announce the glasses in late 2026, with availability likely following in early 2027.
The first model, known internally as N401, will not include a display. A second version with a built-in display could arrive later, possibly around 2028.
Apple Smart Glasses: Design and Comfort
Apple wants the glasses to look like normal eyewear. Reports suggest multiple frame styles, colors, and materials, with both plastic and metal options. Prescription lens support is also expected.
Apple Smart Glasses: AI, Cameras, and Siri
Cameras will power visual intelligence features, allowing the AI to answer questions about what the user is seeing. Siri will play a major role, especially after Apple’s upgraded version launches in spring 2026.
An LED indicator will show when the camera is active to address privacy concerns.
Apple Smart Glasses: Audio and Connectivity
The glasses will include built-in speakers and microphones, with support for voice commands and phone calls. They’ll connect to an iPhone via Bluetooth and possibly Ultra Wideband, similar to the Apple Watch.
Apple Smart Glasses: Battery and Charging
Battery life is expected to last a full day. The lack of a display should help improve power efficiency. Charging may use a magnetic connector or a case similar to AirPods.
Apple Smart Glasses: Pricing and Competition
Pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but estimates range from $499 to $1,000. Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses currently start at $299, while display models cost more.
Google is also preparing to reenter the market in 2026, making competition in the smart glasses space more intense.
Should You Wait?
For iPhone users, waiting may be the best option. Apple’s smart glasses are expected to offer deeper ecosystem integration than current alternatives.
If you need smart glasses now, Meta’s Ray-Ban models are the most polished choice. But for those who value Apple’s ecosystem and AI focus, Apple’s upcoming glasses may be worth holding out for.
Apple’s smart glasses are shaping up to be its next major wearable. By focusing on AI instead of displays, Apple appears to be taking a practical first step into the smart glasses market.
While details like price and battery life are still unclear, a late 2026 announcement could make Apple’s smart glasses one of the most anticipated tech launches ahead.
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