In his latest “Power On” newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says engineers at Apple’s labs in Cupertino, California, have discussed the possibility of developing smart glasses — something similar to new products from Meta Platforms Inc. and Amazon.com Inc.
Apple Glasses
The glasses could provide audio (so users don’t have to wear AirPods) and take advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) and cameras to identify things in the surrounding world. The device also could act as a stepping stone toward Apple’s long-held dream: true augmented reality spectacles that you can wear all day, he says. Such “Apple Glasses” have been rumored for some time.
“How could Apple approach the market? Well, the company has had early discussions about creating glasses that would serve as an AirPods replacement — but with beefier batteries, more sensors and broader AI capabilities” Mark writes. That would mean people wouldn’t have to wear their AirPods (though they could use them for higher-quality audio) while still staying entrenched in an Apple interface all day long.”
An Apple Ring
In his “Power On” newsletter, Mark also reinforces a report that is working on a smart ring that can be worn on a user’s finger to track their health metrics.
“Such a device could serve as a low-cost way to gather key health data without the need to wear a full-blown watch,” Mark says. “…. “Apple could tie the ring to its Health and Fitness apps and sell it is as an iPhone accessory. It won’t generate as much money as a smartwatch, but Apple can court a new type of customer (and even theoretically offer it as a subscription). Finally, an Apple ring owner would be less likely to ditch the iPhone for an Android device.”
This info from Gurman is from the free edition of “Power On”. If you like it, consider subscribing to Bloomberg.com—you’ll receive the newsletter earlier and get exclusive access to a Q&A section.
