In the world of AI-powered wearables, companies have been experimenting with onboard cameras and microphones to deliver context-aware insights to users. From Meta’s smart glasses to the failed Humane AI Pin, AI wearables are gaining traction. Apple, known for its strategic yet cautious approach to innovation, has already begun its foray into this space with the introduction of Visual Intelligence.
Launched with the iPhone 16, this new feature leverages AI to help users better understand the world around them. By simply long-pressing the camera button, iPhone users can take a snapshot of an object, which is then analyzed through AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Search. The feature can even summarize or translate text and identify objects, landmarks, and animals. Currently, this functionality is exclusive to the iPhone 16 but is expected to expand in the coming months with the release of iOS 18.4, which will extend the feature to the iPhone 15 Pro.
While the feature is still in its early stages, Apple has big plans for its Visual Intelligence platform. The company envisions a future where this AI-driven technology becomes a central feature across all its devices, including the highly anticipated camera-equipped AirPods.
The Apple Watch Gets an AI Boost: What’s in the Works?
Apple’s ambitions for AI wearables don’t stop at the iPhone or AirPods. The company is reportedly working on incorporating cameras into future versions of the Apple Watch, both for the standard Series models and the Ultra edition. This development, while still years away, is expected to push the capabilities of smartwatches beyond fitness tracking and notifications.
The idea behind the camera integration is to create a device that can observe the world around the wearer, providing relevant AI-powered insights in real-time. For the standard Apple Watch, Apple is considering placing the camera under the display, similar to the front-facing camera on an iPhone. This would allow users to point their wrist at an object and receive detailed information about it, all thanks to the power of AI.
On the other hand, the Apple Watch Ultra, with its larger form factor, may feature the camera on the side of the watch, near the crown and button. This design is more practical for the thicker Ultra model, giving wearers the ability to easily point their wrist at objects for scanning purposes. While some users may dream of using these cameras for FaceTime calls, the technical limitations of the small screen size and the discomfort of holding up your wrist for prolonged periods make this feature less likely.
Apple’s Vision for AI in Wearables
Apple’s strategy for expanding AI capabilities in wearables is part of a broader vision to create smarter, more intuitive devices. By gradually rolling out features like Visual Intelligence, Apple aims to familiarize users with the technology on their iPhones before introducing it to their other products. The company’s careful approach mirrors its strategy with previous successful products, where they enhance existing devices rather than reinventing the wheel.
These advancements in AI are also aligned with Apple’s long-term goal of reducing its reliance on external platforms like Google and OpenAI. Apple intends to develop its own AI models to power its devices, including future Apple Watches and AirPods. This would give Apple greater control over the user experience and help set its wearables apart from the competition.
Challenges and Setbacks: The Road Ahead for Apple Watch
While Apple is making strides in AI and wearable technology, it is not without its challenges. The company is facing difficulties with the development of its long-anticipated blood pressure tracking feature for the Apple Watch. Sources suggest that testing has encountered roadblocks, delaying its release.
Additionally, Apple’s plans for a redesigned, plastic Apple Watch SE are also in jeopardy. The design team is not satisfied with the look, and the operations team is struggling to make the casing as cost-effective as the current aluminum model. These setbacks highlight the complexities of product development at Apple, especially when it comes to balancing innovation with practicality.
The Future of AI Wearables: What’s Next for Apple?
Despite these hurdles, Apple is continuing to push forward with its AI wearables strategy. In addition to the camera-equipped Apple Watches and AirPods, the company is expected to introduce new features such as satellite texting and 5G RedCap support in the next Ultra model. As the tech landscape evolves, Apple seems committed to enhancing its current products with the latest AI capabilities, providing users with smarter, more connected experiences.
Looking ahead, we can expect to see the gradual rollout of these innovations, with a possible full-scale launch of AI-powered wearables by 2027. If Apple can overcome its current challenges and successfully integrate AI into its smartwatch lineup, the company could solidify its place at the forefront of the AI wearables market.
Apple’s move into the AI-powered wearable market is a natural progression for a company that has long been known for its innovation in personal tech. By integrating cameras and AI into devices like the Apple Watch, the company is paving the way for smarter, more context-aware wearables. While there are still hurdles to overcome, Apple’s strategic approach and commitment to gradually rolling out new features give us reason to believe that the future of wearable technology is bright. Keep an eye on Apple as it continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with AI.
