Apple is narrowing its smart glasses plan, with four frame designs now in testing ahead of a reported 2027 launch window. A reveal could come as early as late 2026.
Good to Know
Apple is reportedly testing four different frame designs.
Current plans point to a launch in 2027, with a possible unveiling in late 2026 or early 2027.
The product is expected to skip displays and focus on cameras, audio, calls and Siri.
Apple appears to be moving away from a heavier mixed reality push and toward a lighter smart glasses product closer in concept to Meta Ray-Ban glasses. The reported first version would not include displays, but it would support photos, video, phone calls, music playback and Siri interaction.
The design work now looks broader than earlier reports suggested. Bloomberg, as summarized by 9to5Mac, said Apple is testing four styles: a large rectangular frame, a slimmer rectangular frame, a larger oval or circular frame, and a smaller oval or circular option. Reported color tests include black, ocean blue and light brown.
In practical terms, Apple seems to be chasing a more wearable product after the weaker response to Vision Pro and delays around wider AR plans. Current reporting points to smart glasses that work closely with iPhone, making them more of an everyday accessory than a standalone device.
Cameras are expected to play a central role. Reports say Apple is using an oval camera lens approach, with the glasses built for quick capture and AI driven assistance rather than immersive display features.