No augmented reality expected as Apple’s first smart glasses are coming together for a June reveal
Announcement and expected timing
Apple’s smart glasses are among the company’s most discussed rumored products. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman says Apple plans to unveil its first model at WWDC next June. The glasses will not include augmented reality features. Gurman says shipments would start before the end of the year, though the product may not be available immediately after its announcement.
Siri and early prototypes
The glasses’ usefulness is expected to depend on a revamped Siri AI, which is gaining more detailed control over apps. Apple is adding these capabilities and giving developers a chance to support them on the iPhone first.
Prototype units, known as N50, run a simplified version of visionOS and use a new processor based on older Apple Watch chips. Gurman describes their MagSafe-like charger as flat and rectangular, about the size of a Tic Tac, and usable while the glasses are being worn.
Wi-Fi, audio, and limitations
Apple is focusing on style, privacy, and sound quality. Wi-Fi could allow some functions outside third-party apps to continue when an iPhone is not close by. For example, users could keep streaming audio over Wi-Fi after leaving their phones behind. The glasses will still depend on an iPhone for many tasks rather than working as a fully independent device, while supporting calls, music playback, and FaceTime audio.
Key points
- Apple is expected to announce its first smart glasses at WWDC next June.
- The eyewear will lack augmented reality features, with shipments expected before the end of the year.
- N50 prototypes run a pared-down version of visionOS and use a processor based on older smartwatch chips.
- Wi-Fi may support some functions away from an iPhone, but the glasses will not be fully independent.