Apple is testing at least four distinct frame styles for its upcoming smart glasses, betting on premium materials and fashion-forward design to compete with Meta's Ray-Ban collaboration. The eyewear will use acetate instead of plastic for a more luxurious feel, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
The glasses represent a pivot away from improved reality toward simpler wearables that function primarily as iPhone accessories. They will feature integrated cameras, microphones and sensors but lack the complex displays of Apple's Vision Pro headset.
Instead, they'll relay phone notifications, capture photos and videos, play music and interact with AI features like upgraded Siri.
Four designs are currently in testing: a large rectangular frame reminiscent of Ray-Ban Wayfarers, a slimmer rectangular option similar to those worn by CEO Tim Cook, larger oval or circular frames and a smaller refined oval version.
Color options under consideration include black, ocean blue and light brown. A distinctive oval camera array surrounded by indicator lights will differentiate Apple's product from competitors.
The glasses will pair with an iPhone to power most functions, making them more dependent on the phone than even the Apple Watch. The smart glasses project could be announced later this year or in early 2027, with actual availability targeted for spring or summer 2027.
They form part of Apple's broader push into AI-centric hardware that also includes AirPods with integrated cameras, a smart home display and a wearable pendant device.
Apple continues development of advanced improved reality glasses with integrated displays but that product remains years away from market readiness.
