Apple Targets 2026 for AI-Powered Smart Glasses Launch

Apple is targeting a launch of AI-powered smart glasses by the end of 2026, signaling a push into augmented reality wearables. The project would mark Apple’s entry into a market that includes Meta’s popular Ray-Ban smart glasses. Sources familiar with the plans say Apple is ramping production efforts, with large-scale prototype manufacturing expected to begin later this year alongside overseas suppliers, while engineers work toward a 2026 deadline. The glasses, potentially branded under the internal name N401, are described as including cameras, microphones and speakers to interact with surroundings and respond to commands via Siri. Expected features include phone calls, music playback, live translations and navigation, overlapping with capabilities cited for upcoming AR devices from Meta and Alphabet. The report also notes OpenAI’s partnership with former Apple design chief Jony Ive as part of intensifying AI hardware competition.