Apple's Next Wearable: A Camera-Equipped Pendant and Smart Glasses
Apple is reportedly developing a new line of wearable devices that go beyond the Apple Watch and AirPods, according to recent reports from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The centerpiece is an AirTag-sized pendant with built-in cameras and microphones, designed to work seamlessly with the iPhone. Alongside this, Apple is also advancing smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods. These products aim to integrate artificial intelligence (Apple Intelligence) and enhanced Siri capabilities, though some are still in early stages and may launch as late as 2027. Below, we answer key questions about these upcoming wearables.
What is the new wearable Apple is reportedly developing?
Apple is working on a small, AirTag-sized pendant that includes an always-on camera and a microphone for Siri voice commands. Unlike the failed Humane AI Pin—which was a standalone device with a laser projector—this pendant is designed as an iPhone accessory. It will lack a display and rely heavily on a paired iPhone for processing power, though it will have its own chip for limited tasks. The device can be clipped to clothing or worn as a necklace by threading a cord through a hole. Apple is also debating whether to add a speaker. This product emphasizes tight integration with iOS and Apple Intelligence for tasks like visual recognition and contextual assistance.
How does the pendant differ from the Humane AI Pin?
The key difference is that Apple's pendant is not a standalone product—it functions purely as an accessory to the iPhone. The Humane AI Pin was an independent device with a laser projector that displayed information on the user's hand, whereas Apple's pendant has no display or projector. Instead, it captures data (video and audio) and sends it to the iPhone for processing. Additionally, the Humane AI Pin had its own operating system and cellular connectivity, while Apple's pendant relies on the iPhone's processing power. Reports suggest Apple's design is more minimalist, focusing on always-on camera and Siri integration. The pendant also attaches magnetically or via a clip/necklace, making it less obtrusive than a pin worn on clothing.
What are the key features and specifications of the pendant?
The pendant will feature an always-on camera and a microphone for Siri commands. It will have its own chip for basic functions but will offload heavier processing (like AI inference) to a paired iPhone. There is no display; instead, feedback will likely come through Siri voice responses or paired AirPods. The device is expected to include Apple Intelligence capabilities, such as recognizing objects or providing contextual information. Apple is also evaluating adding a speaker for audio feedback. The pendant attaches via a clip or can be worn as a necklace. It will likely integrate with iOS 27's revamped Siri features, which are expected to debut around 2027. The design is compact, similar to an AirTag, but with a camera lens on the front.
When might the pendant launch, and could it be canceled?
According to Mark Gurman and The Information, the pendant is in early development and could launch as early as 2027. However, there is a significant chance the project could be canceled, as Apple often prototypes products that never reach market. The timeline depends on the success of related projects, such as AirPods with cameras (which are in advanced testing) and the maturity of Siri's AI features. The pendant is expected to be part of Apple's broader push into augmented reality and wearable computing. If it proceeds, it would likely be announced alongside iOS 27. But given the fast-changing AI landscape, Apple may pivot or prioritize other form factors like smart glasses.
What are Apple's plans for smart glasses?
Apple is also working on smart glasses that will compete with Meta Ray-Bans. These glasses, expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, will have built-in cameras for capturing photos and videos, as well as speakers and microphones for music, phone calls, and Siri notifications. They will emphasize tight iPhone integration and premium build quality. The cameras will feed data to Siri and Apple Intelligence to improve features like turn-by-turn walking directions. Apple is testing at least four frame designs: a larger rectangular style (like Ray-Ban Wayfarers), a slimmer rectangular design, and both larger and smaller oval or circular frames. Color options include black, ocean blue, and light brown. The glasses will likely have customizable prescription lenses and will be sold as a companion to the iPhone.
How will the smart glasses integrate with the iPhone?
The smart glasses will rely on the iPhone for core processing, similar to the pendant. They will use Apple's proprietary chips for limited on-device tasks (like camera processing) but will send complex data to the iPhone for Apple Intelligence and Siri. The cameras will enable visual context, such as reading signs, recognizing objects, or providing navigation cues via the glasses' speakers. Users will be able to take photos and videos hands-free, with the content automatically synced to the iPhone. The glasses will also leverage Siri's revamped AI for notifications, calls, and music playback. Apple is likely to design a custom app or iOS integration that allows users to customize gestures and controls. The goal is to make the glasses an invisible extension of the iPhone, not a standalone device.