Apple is accelerating development on its first pair of smart glasses, with a potential 2027 market debut and a possible preview as early as the end of this year, according to reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
Multiple Designs Under Evaluation
As Apple refines its wearable strategy, internal testing has expanded to include four distinct frame designs. The company is currently evaluating these prototypes to determine which models will make it to the final production stage, with the possibility of launching a diverse lineup.
The reported design portfolio features a large rectangular frame and a slimmer rectangular variant, the latter of which mirrors the style favored by CEO Tim Cook. Additionally, Apple is testing larger and smaller oval or circular frame shapes. To complement these aesthetics, the design team is exploring a variety of colorways, including black, ocean blue, and light brown.
Strategic Shift in Hardware Roadmap
The move toward standard-looking eyewear represents a significant pivot from Apple’s previous, highly ambitious roadmap. The company had initially aimed to dominate the mixed and augmented reality space with a broader array of complex devices, a strategy that faced substantial friction due to recurring product delays and the tepid market reception of the Vision Pro.
Functionality and Feature Set
These upcoming smart glasses are shifting focus toward a form factor similar to Meta’s Ray-Ban collaboration. Rather than integrating bulky displays, the hardware is expected to prioritize seamless daily utility. Core features will include the ability to capture photos and videos via specialized oval camera lenses, manage phone calls, stream audio, and integrate with a significantly enhanced, AI-driven version of Siri.
