Apple ramps up AI hardware with glasses, pendant and camera‑equipped AirPods

Core Viewpoint - Apple Inc. is accelerating the development of three new wearable devices focused on artificial intelligence, including smart glasses, a pendant, and enhanced AirPods, as part of a strategic shift in its product offerings [1][2][4]. Group 1: Product Development - The new devices will be integrated with Apple's Siri digital assistant, utilizing visual context for functionality [2][3]. - Smart glasses, code-named N50, are expected to feature a high-resolution camera and are targeted for production to begin as early as December, with a public release planned for 2027 [9][8]. - The pendant is designed as an accessory for the iPhone, functioning as an always-on camera and microphone for Siri, and could launch as early as next year [18][21]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Apple is competing with companies like Meta and OpenAI in the AI-powered hardware space, with Meta's glasses already gaining popularity [6][7]. - The smart glasses are intended to rival Meta's camera-equipped eyewear, focusing on build quality and camera technology [10][8]. Group 3: Technological Features - The smart glasses will include two camera lenses for high-resolution imagery and computer vision, enabling real-time environmental context interpretation [13][14]. - Advanced features may allow the glasses to read printed text and create context-aware reminders, enhancing user interaction with their surroundings [15][16]. Group 4: Market Strategy - Apple aims to keep users within its ecosystem through these new wearable devices, following a previous unsuccessful attempt with the Vision Pro headset [7]. - The company is also exploring a range of AI devices for home use, including a smart display and updated HomePod speaker, indicating a broader strategy in AI integration [24].