Apple to Launch Smart Glasses in 2026, Aiming to Rival Meta’s Ray-Ban

Following mixed reactions to Vision Pro, Apple shifts focus to facewear with new smart glasses as it accelerates AI device innovation

Apple is gearing up for a significant new product launch: smart glasses expected to hit the market by the end of 2026, according to a report by Bloomberg News. This move marks the tech giant’s latest effort to diversify its product lineup and boost interest in its expanding portfolio of artificial intelligence (AI) devices.

The company is set to begin large-scale production of prototypes with overseas suppliers by the end of this year, signaling a serious commitment to facewear technology. This initiative follows a lukewarm public response to Apple’s Vision Pro headset, which, despite its innovative features, faced criticism for its steep price and limited AI capabilities.

Apple’s upcoming smart glasses will enter a competitive arena currently led by Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, which have gained popularity among consumers. By entering this space, Apple aims to carve out its own niche and challenge Meta’s foothold in the evolving market of wearable tech.

In addition to this new product, Apple has reportedly shelved plans for an ambitious smartwatch equipped with a built-in camera designed to analyze surroundings. Originally targeted for a 2027 release, the project was discontinued, reflecting a shift in Apple’s strategic focus towards more promising technologies.

As the tech world watches closely, Apple’s smart glasses may well redefine how users interact with their devices, blending augmented reality, AI, and sleek design in a compact, wearable form. The company’s investment in these innovations underscores its determination to remain at the forefront of consumer technology.