Apple plans to debut AI smart glasses at June 2025 developer conference

Apple intends to introduce its artificial intelligence-powered smart glasses during its annual developer conference in June 2025, according to a report by Bloomberg. The iPhone maker aims to showcase the device to developers at the event, indicating a potential market release later in the year, possibly before the holiday shopping season.

The company has been developing smart glasses for several years, but the project has seen multiple internal restructures. Earlier reports suggested a 2024 launch, but the timeline has reportedly been delayed due to privacy concerns. Apple is testing a version without cameras as well as a software-based approach where cameras are used only for environmental sensing, not for capturing photos or videos. This technology might also be incorporated into future AirPods.

Apple's approach contrasts with Meta's smart glasses, which have raised significant privacy issues. Meta's glasses, developed with EssilorLuxottica, feature built-in cameras that can record without clear indicators, leading to cases of surreptitious filming. Meta currently dominates the AI smart glasses market, accounting for an estimated 80% of global sales. Its glasses start at $299 (approximately Rs 28,764).

Apple's glasses are expected to include a camera, microphone, speakers, and integration with Siri, positioning them as direct competitors to Meta's offering. Samsung is also preparing to launch its own smart glasses later this year. Snap has announced a new version of its Specs smart glasses, focusing on augmented reality at a price of $2,195 (approximately Rs 2,11,165). Google is exploring a re-entry into the smart glasses market after the failure of Google Glass a decade ago.

The tech industry is betting on smart glasses as a potential successor to smartphones, with several major players investing in the category. Apple's entry, with its emphasis on privacy, could reshape the market dynamics.