Apple Intelligence logo badge. It’s not an Apple Intelligence pin
Faced with competition from Open AI and Meta, Apple is said to be redoubling its efforts to get a wearable and camera-equipped AirPods.
In an effort to follow the trends in the AI market, Apple is said to be working on a number of new products that use artificial intelligence. If Tuesday’s report on the matter is correct, Apple is happy to make it a reality.
According to BloombergApple held an all-hands meeting in early February. During that meeting, CEO Tim Cook said that Apple is working hard to push AI into devices and that the company is “extremely excited” about new product categories.
These new categories are beyond the usual expectations of smart glasses, as they include the two items previously mentioned. A pendant and AirPods equipped with a camera.
Apple Intelligence pendant
The pendant may not have been talked about like this before, but it appears to be a rework of the previously rumored wearable AI pin from January. This time, Mark Gurman describes it as a “pendant” that can be clipped onto clothing or worn as a necklace.
Reportedly an idea that predates the oft-rumored Apple Glass smart glasses, it’s a Humane AI pin-like idea. However, it would be more of an iPhone expansion accessory that would provide an always-on camera and microphone to access Siri and Apple Intelligence.
The pendant cannot handle the actual processing. That will still be a task for the iPhone.
The industrial design team leads the work on the product, but with input from the Vision Products Group on its engineering. Whether to include a speaker that would allow a two-way conversation with Siri without pulling out an iPhone or using AirPods is still under debate.
Despite the multitasking, the project is still in its early stages and may never see the light of day. If progress is made, it could be launched as early as 2027.
AirPods with cameras
AirPods with cameras are a more plausible start for Apple, which has been rumored for a few years. Effectively smart glasses without the glasses element, AirPods would have cameras to monitor the outside world.
Apple has reportedly added low-resolution cameras to the AirPods, as well as a pendant. These cameras are intended for AI to see the world rather than for taking pictures or recording video.
As for when they might launch, the report says it’s slated to arrive possibly as late as 2026.