Apple plans smart glasses with new $400 chip by 2027

Apple is advancing development of its first smart glasses, aiming to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, according to a May 8 Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the project.

The new device will be powered by a specialised chip codenamed N401, derived from Apple Watch processors but optimised for power efficiency and capable of managing multiple cameras embedded in the glasses.

These smart glasses will initially not feature augmented reality but will include cameras, microphones, and integrated artificial intelligence functionalities similar to Meta’s offerings.

Features are expected to include photo capture, video recording, translation, and visual intelligence that can scan surroundings, identify objects, provide product information, and offer directions.

Mass production is targeted for late 2026 or 2027, suggesting a market launch within approximately two years.

In addition to the smart glasses chip, Apple is developing other processors for future Macs and AI servers to support its “Apple Intelligence” platform.

Bloomberg’s report mentions chips codenamed “Komodo,” likely to be M6 processors succeeding this year’s M5 chips, and “Borneo,” expected to be future M7 processors, along with a more advanced chip called “Sotra.”

Apple is also working on dedicated AI server chips under the codename “Baltra,” which could feature up to eight times the processing and graphics cores of current M3 Ultra chips.

The Baltra chips are expected to be completed by 2027 to enhance the speed and competitiveness of Apple’s AI services.

This development comes amid growing competition in AI chip technology, with companies like Huawei also advancing powerful AI processors.

Apple’s move into smart glasses with custom chips signals its intent to expand hardware offerings and integrate AI more deeply across its ecosystem.