Apple's Smart Glasses: Two Models in Development, Powered by Custom Chips

Apple is working on two types of smart glasses — one with augmented reality (AR) features and one without — aiming for mass production around 2026–2027. These devices will be supported by a custom chip based on Apple Watch's S-series technology, tailored for low power consumption and lightweight design.

What We Know So Far

• Apple previously cancelled an AR glasses project codenamed N107 due to technical and cost constraints.
• Despite this, Apple is still developing AR glasses similar to Meta’s Orion project.
• The company is also building new chips for future versions of Apple Watch and AirPods.

This suggests a broader push by Apple into a future ecosystem of AI-powered wearable devices.

Custom Chip Development

The new glasses will utilize a specialized chip based on Apple’s existing Watch silicon. This chip is expected to support:

• Efficient power usage
• Real-time sensor fusion for AR overlays
• Camera support and wireless connectivity

Mass production for this chip is reportedly scheduled for late 2026 or 2027.

Why the Previous Project Was Cancelled

The earlier AR video glasses (N107) were scrapped because of issues like:

• Excessive power and heat output
• Short battery life
• High manufacturing costs

Rather than abandon AR, Apple appears to have taken a step back to reassess and redesign.

Expansion Beyond Glasses

In addition to the smart glasses, Apple is also working on:

• Camera-equipped Apple Watch (codename: Nevis)
• Smart AirPods with AI sensors and possible camera integration (codename: Glennie)
• Advanced AI chips for Macs and servers

Estimated Release Timeline

Given the current development pace and chip production schedule, Apple’s smart glasses are expected to arrive by 2028 or later this decade. The delay reflects Apple’s cautious approach to entering the spatial computing market with a polished product.

Competing in a Crowded Space

Apple is entering a market already featuring products like:

• Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
• Google and Samsung's upcoming XR devices

However, Apple’s key strengths — including custom silicon, ecosystem integration, and privacy — could give it a strong edge once its glasses launch.

Conclusion

Apple’s smart glasses project is slowly taking shape, now anchored by custom chip development and a revised vision following its earlier setbacks. With the tech giant’s ecosystem and hardware expertise, this could be a major leap into the future of wearable spatial computing.

Source: The Verge