Apple is reportedly testing four different styles for its smart glasses as it prepares to enter the augmented reality market. The company aims to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, which are currently in their second generation.
According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple may launch one or more of the four styles currently under evaluation by the end of 2023. This move reflects Apple’s intent to cover multiple design preferences, possibly appealing to a broader audience.
The styles being tested include a large rectangular frame akin to Ray-Ban Wayfarers, a slimmer rectangular model similar to those worn by Apple CEO Tim Cook, and both larger and smaller oval or circular frames. Apple is also exploring a range of colors; available options reportedly include black, ocean blue, and light brown.
Internally code-named N50, Apple’s glasses are expected to feature vertically oriented oval lenses with surrounding lights. These smart glasses will have capabilities similar to Meta’s models, such as capturing photos and videos. However, they are designed to sync more efficiently with iPhones, offering users enhanced features for editing, sharing, phone calls, notifications, music, and Apple’s voice assistant.
Bloomberg noted that the potential release of Apple’s smart glasses could coincide with an updated version of Siri planned for iOS 27. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg stated that Apple could reveal the smart glasses as early as late 2026 or early 2027, with a formal launch anticipated in 2027.
In the competitive landscape, Meta has launched its updated model focused on better accommodating prescription lenses and providing a customizable fit, positioning itself strongly in the smart glasses market.
