'Pull the rug out': Mark Gurman explains Apple’s plan to launch smart glasses and stop Meta’s momentum

Key Points:

• Apple is expected to unveil its first smart glasses, Apple Glasses, as early as September, with a rollout planned for early 2027; these glasses will initially be display-free and focus on integration with the iPhone and enhanced Siri capabilities.
• The glasses will offer features such as playing music, capturing photos and videos, notifications, phone calls, and hands-free Siri assistance, with a premium design made from acetate and multiple style and color options.
• Apple aims to differentiate its smart glasses through tighter iPhone integration, superior build quality, and the strength of the Apple ecosystem, competing against products like Meta Ray-Ban glasses and upcoming Android XR glasses.
• A key feature will be visual intelligence, enabling contextual reminders and improved turn-by-turn directions using built-in cameras, enhancing usability beyond typical smart glasses functions.
• Alongside the glasses, Apple is developing AI wearables including AirPods with IR cameras for environmental awareness and an AI pendant with camera and microphones, targeting users who prefer alternatives to glasses; however, the pendant is expected to be less popular.