Key Highlights
- Apple has developed at least four prototype frame designs for its AI-enabled smart glasses, known internally as project N50.
- Frame variations include rectangular shapes and oval/circular configurations, available in black, ocean blue, and light brown finishes.
- The company is developing a distinctive vertically-oriented oval camera system with integrated lighting.
- Premium acetate materials will be used for frame construction, offering superior durability compared to standard plastics.
- Apple aims to reveal the product in late 2026 or early 2027, with consumer availability expected by the end of 2027.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is advancing development of its inaugural AI-powered smart glasses with multiple frame prototypes currently undergoing evaluation.
The prototype lineup features a broader rectangular frame reminiscent of classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers, a more refined rectangular variant, plus two oval or circular alternatives in different sizes. Sources indicate the streamlined rectangular prototype bears resemblance to eyewear typically worn by Apple CEO Tim Cook.
The Cupertino tech giant is planning to launch the glasses in several color options: black, ocean blue, and light brown. Rather than conventional plastic, Apple has selected acetate for the primary frame construction — a material choice that delivers enhanced durability and a more luxurious feel compared to competitor offerings.
Internally, the initiative carries the codename N50.
An Innovative Approach to Camera Design
Among the most noteworthy design elements Apple is testing involves a camera configuration featuring vertically-oriented oval lenses accompanied by ambient lighting. This represents a departure from the circular camera approach utilized in Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses collaboration.
The integrated cameras will enable both photography and video recording capabilities. Additionally, the glasses will feature built-in microphones and speakers to facilitate phone calls, audio playback, and notification alerts.
A sophisticated multimodal AI system will drive the glasses’ functionality, incorporating Siri voice assistant integration alongside visual intelligence capabilities. Notably, this product will not include augmented reality features — Apple is developing a separate AR glasses device with built-in displays, though that project remains on a longer timeline.
Challenging Meta’s Market Position
Meta currently dominates the smart glasses category. The sector experienced 139% year-over-year expansion during the latter half of 2025, with Meta’s product range accounting for the majority of that growth, based on data from Counterpoint Research.
Apple’s strategic objective appears focused on developing a distinctive, immediately identifiable product that differentiates itself from existing market options.
Gurman emphasized that with proper execution — especially regarding a fully functional Siri implementation — the glasses could replicate the Apple Watch trajectory: entering the market after competitors but ultimately achieving market leadership.
Apple isn’t limiting its hardware ambitions to smart glasses alone. The company is simultaneously preparing to introduce a foldable iPhone in September 2026, camera-equipped AirPods, a smart home display device, and a wearable pendant accessory.
Apple is targeting an official announcement for the smart glasses between late 2026 and early 2027, with product shipments commencing by the conclusion of 2027.
