If you have had your sights set on sliding on a pair of smart glasses from Apple, you are going to have to wait a little longer than previously thought. Apple now aims to release its much rumored AI glasses in late 2027, according to a new report. The glasses were previously expected to be announced later this year and begin shipping in early 2027, but the company has experienced bumps in development. Apple’s smart glasses are regarded as a key component of the company’s product roadmap. People close to the outgoing CEO say he is a strong supporter of the project and regards the glasses as his top priority.
Why The Delay
The delay pushes the rumored launch from early 2027 to late 2027, roughly a six to nine month slip. The report cites development bumps as the primary reason for the delay. The incoming CEO, who will take the reins in September, is said to be the driving force behind the project, having led the product development team for the past two years. This suggests that leadership transition is not the cause of the delay, as the same executive has been overseeing the project already.
Design And Features
The glasses will reportedly include design elements such as oval shaped cameras, unique colors, and multiple frame styles in an effort to stand out from the competition. Over time, Apple believes the glasses could evolve into a health device and eventually incorporate augmented reality technologies capable of improving how people see.
Earlier reports indicated that Apple was testing frame designs that include a large rectangular frame similar to classic Wayfarer styles, a slimmer rectangular style, a larger oval or circular design, and a smaller oval or circular option. This suggests Apple is exploring a range of styles to appeal to different face shapes and fashion preferences.
The smart glasses are expected to include cameras for capturing videos and photos, microphones and speakers for handling phone calls, listening to notifications, and playing music. They will also reportedly have a multimodal AI that could respond to requests through Siri.
Competition Heating Up In 2026
Research suggests the smart glasses category is still in its early stages. The smart glasses market grew 139 percent year over year in the second half of 2025 compared to 2024. While one company has dominated the field so far, a wave of smart eyewear with a wide range of capabilities has been rolling out in 2026. Several major tech companies are expected to show off new glasses soon, meaning Apple will be entering a much more crowded market when its glasses finally arrive in late 2027.
Apple’s Long Term Vision
Apple believes the glasses could eventually incorporate augmented reality technologies capable of improving how people see. This suggests that the initial version may focus on basic smart features like cameras and audio, with more advanced AR capabilities coming in future generations. The health device potential is also significant, as smart glasses could potentially monitor vital signs, track activity, or assist with vision related health conditions.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Multiple frame styles and unique colors to appeal to different fashion preferences
- Oval shaped cameras designed to stand out from competitors
- Multimodal AI integrated with Siri for voice control
- Cameras for capturing videos and photos
- Microphones and speakers for calls, notifications, and music
- Potential to evolve into a health device over time
- Augmented reality capabilities could improve how people see in future versions
- Regarded as a top priority by outgoing and incoming leadership
Cons
- Delayed until late 2027, which is more than a year away
- Previously expected in early 2027, representing a six to nine month slip
- Competition from Meta, Google, and Samsung will have a multi year head start
- Smart glasses market is still early stage with uncertain consumer demand
- No specific features or pricing announced yet
- Potential privacy concerns with always on cameras
- Battery life for smart glasses remains a challenge for all manufacturers
