Oppenheimer Reiterates Apple (AAPL) as “Perform” Despite Meta’s Smart Glasses Launch

Core Viewpoint - Apple Inc. is being closely monitored by analysts as a significant player in the AI stock market, with Oppenheimer maintaining a "Perform" rating on the stock following the launch of Meta's Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, asserting that these glasses do not pose a threat to Apple's ecosystem [1][2]. Group 1 - Oppenheimer's analysis indicates that Meta's Ray-Ban Display, priced at $799, includes an in-lens display and an EMG wristband for gesture control, but does not significantly challenge Apple's integrated hardware ecosystem [2][3]. - The firm addressed two critical questions for Apple investors: whether the Ray-Ban Display threatens Apple's ecosystem surrounding the iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, and whether Meta is surpassing Apple in smart glasses design, concluding that the answer to both is no [3]. - Apple is recognized as a technology company specializing in consumer electronics, software, and services, reinforcing its established market position [3]. Group 2 - While acknowledging Apple's potential as an investment, Oppenheimer suggests that certain AI stocks may offer greater upside potential and lower downside risk, indicating a competitive landscape in the AI sector [4].