Apple Developing Custom Chips for Smart Glasses, Advanced Macs, and AI Servers

Apple said to be developing new chips for smart glasses, Macs, and more

Apple is reportedly developing new chips to drive smart glasses similar to Meta's Ray-Ban Meta as well as more powerful Macs and AI servers. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman notes that one of the chips is inspired by the Apple Watch's low-power processors. Apple aims to put these chips into mass production with TSMC by the end of next year or 2027, according to the report. Glasses are a big focus. Bloomberg has previously reported that Apple CEO Tim Cook is determined to beat Meta in the glasses market, where the latter has seen success in recent years. Since 2023, Meta has sold around 2 million pairs of Ray-Ban Metas. According to Bloomberg, Apple is currently exploring non-AR glasses that use cameras to scan the surrounding environment and rely on AI to assist users. One of the processors under development will be able to control these cameras and other components without draining too much battery, per the report.

Apple is developing specialized chips for smart glasses and AI servers, Bloomberg News reports

May 8 (Reuters) - Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab is developing specialized chips that will power future devices including its first smart glasses, artificial intelligence servers and new MacBooks, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday. The iPhone-maker has made progress on the chip that it's developing for smart glasses, the report said, citing people with knowledge of the matter. This indicates that Apple is doubling-down to compete with the popular Ray-Ban glasses offered by Meta Platforms (META.O), opens new tab. Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Other processors in development will serve as the brains of future Macs as well as AI servers that can power the Apple Intelligence platform, according to the report. In a bid to compete in the lucrative AI market, Apple has made efforts to add on-device AI features to its latest line of iPhones with Apple Intelligence -- a suite that helps summarize notifications, rewrite emails and give users access to OpenAI's ChatGPT, among other features. The company has already made strides in the development of in-house silicon and, in February, revealed its first custom-designed modem chip that connects iPhones to wireless data networks. The processor for its glasses is based on chips used in the Apple Watch that require less energy than components in products like the iPhone, iPad and Mac, the report stated. The chip, which could enter mass production by the end of next year or in 2027, has been customized for power efficiency and to control the multiple cameras that are planned for the glasses, Bloomberg reported. The chip will be manufactured by Taiwan's TSMC (2330.TW), opens new tab and the glasses -- if successful -- are likely to come to market in roughly the next two years, the report added. Apple is also working on several new Mac chips, including processors that will likely be known as the M6 and M7, according to the report. Reporting by Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Suggested Topics:Artificial Intelligence

Apple's smart glasses project may use the same chips from the Watch

Apple is developing a chip for smart glasses, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, and it's based on the chip used for the Apple Watch. The company's silicon group has reportedly removed some components from the chip used for the Watch to improve its power efficiency. In addition, the group has been working to give it the ability to control multiple cameras that the glasses would need to be able to function. Gurman previously reported that the company has set aside plans for Mac-tethered augmented reality glasses but that it still intends to release standalone AR glasses in the future. These glasses won't be true AR glasses, however, and would be more of a direct competitor to Meta's Ray-Bans The company is taking a slower, more cautious approach in developing the standalone glasses, so it could take some time before they're released. Gurman says Apple is looking to start mass producing the chips for the product sometime in 2027, so the company is expecting its development to take two more years at the very least. Based on that timeline, Meta will likely be able to release its first true pair of augmented reality glasses first: The company is already working on one and is hoping to launch it in 2027. If the device is going to be a true competitor to Meta's Ray-Ban spectacles, then it will be able to capture photos and videos, will have speakers or earphones and will be able perform tasks with voice commands. Apple's glasses will reportedly be using cameras to scan its environment and will assist wearers with the help of artificial intelligence. So yes, it will be similar to Meta Ray-Bans, but Bloomberg says Apple is still figuring out its exact approach for the product. Aside from the chip for its smart glasses, Apple is also reportedly working on chips for use in other devices, including a range of more powerful Macs and AI servers.

Forget the Vision Pro: Apple is reportedly going all in on smart glasses with custom chips

Amid reports that Apple CEO Tim Cook is "obsessed" with developing a pair of Apple Glasses, the rumor mill has been rife with claims that Apple's version of smart glasses would feature Apple Intelligence. More grist for that rumor emerged today (May 8) when Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that the Cupertino company is develop new chips to power future smart glasses, Macs and AI servers. What's more, the chip meant for Apple Glasses is apparently well on the way. Since Apple ditched Intel for its own homegrown processors, more and more internal components have been developed in house. Most recently, Apple replaced Broadcom modems with its own C1 modems in the iPhone 16e. The alleged glasses SoC is based on the S chip used in the Apple Watch, which requires less energy than the A and M processors used in iPhones and Macs, respectively. Gurman claims this new chip has been customized to be more power efficient while also controlling multiple cameras that the glasses would feature. While AR has made strides especially with options like the Xreal One and Spacetop glasses, Apple is apparently pursuing the Meta strategy of non-AR glasses. The Apple version would use cameras to scan the world and AI to assist you. That said, Gurman asserts that Apple hasn't settled on an approach yet. For those interested in a set of Apple Glasses, you'll be waiting awhile. The chips might not go into production until late 2026 or 2027, meaning the earliest we could see them in a pair of glasses is maybe fall 2027. According to Gurman, the other chips in development will power future Macs as well as AI servers that will be used to run Apple Intelligence. These new chips include the M6 and M7 as wells an advanced Mac chip code-named Sutra. The AI chips would be exclusively made for AI servers to improve Apple Intelligence. Currently, the company reportedly uses M2 Ultra chips to power its AI servers.

Apple Working on Chips for New Macs and AI Servers

Apple's chip team is working on new processors for more powerful Macs and future artificial intelligence features that will power Apple Intelligence, reports Bloomberg. Chips codenamed "Komodo" will likely be M6 chips that will follow this year's M5 chips, while chips codenamed "Borneo" will be Apple's future M7 processors. Another more advanced Mac chip that will debut in the future is codenamed "Sotra." Apple is designing chips that will be used for AI servers as well, and they are Apple's first processors made specifically for that purpose. The server chips will process Apple Intelligence requests and will be used in Apple servers, serving the same purpose as the high-end Mac chips that Apple uses for servers now now. The server chips that Apple is working on are part of its "Baltra" project, and the chips are expected to be finished by 2027. Apple is working on multiple types of chips, including those with double, quadruple, and eight times the number of CPUs and GPUs as the current M3 Ultra. Apple is also developing specialized chips that will be used in future smart glasses that will rival the Meta Ray-Bans, as well as chips for AirPods and Apple Watch models equipped with cameras. Those products could launch as soon as 2027.

Apple Designing Chips for Smart Glasses That Rival Meta Ray-Bans

Apple is working on new chips that are destined for smart glasses that would compete with Meta's Ray-Bans, reports Bloomberg. The chip is in development now, with Apple targeting mass production in 2026 or 2027 for a launch in the next two years or so. The Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses do not have augmented reality capabilities, but are equipped with a camera and AI functionality. Apple has been considering a competitor for at least a year, and has apparently decided to move forward with development. Apple's smart glasses will include cameras, microphones, and integrated AI, much like the Ray-Bans from Meta, and they would presumably have similar functions like snapping photos, recording video, and offering translation options. Apple could also integrate a Visual Intelligence-like feature for scanning the environment and describing objects, looking up information about products, and providing directions. The glasses will have multiple cameras included, so they could also potentially record spatial video. The chip that Apple is designing for the smart glasses is based on chips that are used in the Apple Watch. These SoCs use less energy than the chips in devices like the iPhone, and Apple has already optimized it to improve power efficiency. While Apple is designing the Ray-Ban like glasses to compete with Meta, it is still working on augmented reality glasses, but that product will not be ready for some time.

Apple's ambitious chip roadmap includes AI, glasses, and 'advanced' Macs

While everyone is wondering what's going on with SIri and what court will rule against Apple next, actual products are in the works deep within Apple itself, including work on the next-gen chips that will be in several products coming in the future. According to a report this week by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the new chips include the M6 and M7 chips that will be used in the Mac lineup. Apple is expected to release the M5 chip in the MacBook Pro this November, so the M6 won't appear until next year, and the M7 likely in 2027. Gurman also said that Apple is working on an "advanced Mac chip in development dubbed Sotra." No details were provided on any of the upcoming chips. 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the MacBook, and Apple reportedly has big plans for the M6 MacBook Pro, including a display update to OLED. Previous reports have said that the M6 will be a 2nm chip, but that the new production process could be more expensive to use than the current enhanced 3nm one. Along with an unpredictable tariff situation, it's possible that the price of the MacBook Pro could increase next year, or the anniversary model could be delayed until 2027. What's more interesting are the chips Apple is making for some undisclosed future devices, which include processors for smart glasses along the lines of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. The chips for the glasses are reportedly based on the Apple Watch S-series chip, but modified to be more power efficient and be able to control the cameras that are installed in the glasses. Gurman says they won't go into product until the end of 2026 or in 2027, which means an actual glasses product won't appear for at least two years. The Apple glasses appear to be a separate product line from the current Vision Pro. Gurman states that the idea is AR-focused, superimposing notifications and other helpful information into view, but he also cautions that "AR remains years away from being practical." It's possible that if Apple's glasses aren't AR-enabled, they will be like the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which record video, take photos, play audio, and support voice functions. Other new chips for Apple wearables include a chip codenamed Nevis for an Apple Watch with a camera, and a chip codenamed Glennie for camera-equipped AirPods. These products are scheduled for 2027. Past reports have indicated that Apple is making servers specifically for the handling of AI processing, and Gurman reports that this project could be ready in 2027. The AI server chips could "have double, quadruple, or eight times the number of main processing and graphics cores as today's M3 Ultra." Many Apple Intelligence features utilize on-device processing, but for Apple to take further steps into implementing more complex AI features, it has to rely on cloud processing. Gurman states that these new servers would help Apple "catch up" to other AI services from Nvidia and Google. Other chips in development include follow-ups to the C1 modem that debuted in the iPhone 16e, including the C2 for the high-end iPhones in 2026, and a "higher-end" C3 for 2027. Apple also continues to work on a sensor and chip system for monitoring blood glucose levels on the Apple Watch.

Apple will reportedly take on Ray-Ban Meta glasses in 2027

The company is also reportedly still working on a more advanced pair Apple's been rumored to be working on smart glasses for what feels like forever, and it makes sense considering that this wearable gadget would be lighter than the Apple Vision Pro with a slimmer all-around design and, hopefully, lighter on the wallet as well. A new report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman details that the Cupertino-based tech giant is making progress on a chip that will power "its first smart glasses." The report notes that 'progress has been made' on the chip, which means that internal work on the smart glasses is ramping up and that production on the processor is set to start by the end of 2027. Now, dates can move and change, but that would put these smart glasses on the road for release in about two years. These aren't the full-fledged AR glasses that have long been rumored, though; rather, the report says these smart glasses "would compete with the popular Ray-Ban spectacles" from Meta. The Meta Ray-Bans are a hit for the company, landing in a similar build to classic glasses. They allow one to take photos or videos without taking a phone out and offer easy access to the Meta AI assistant. Apple's exact feature set for these smart glasses that wouldn't overlay the world around you isn't set as of yet, though. According to the report, "Apple is currently exploring non-AR glasses that use cameras to scan the surrounding environment and rely on AI to assist users." This sounds pretty similar to what Meta Ray-Ban offers and also to Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 16 lineup - and iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max - which uses Google or ChatGPT to identify what's in the scene. Hopefully, by 2027, though, Apple Intelligence will be more widely rolled out, with AI-powered Siri in the hands of plenty of consumers on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Seeing that this reported chip is modeled after the Apple Watch's SoC, it's likely that these smart glasses would pair with another device like an iPhone, probably in a process similar to setting up an Apple Watch or AirPods. However, Apple isn't just switching to focusing on building smart glasses without AR. The report notes that this new model and the previously rumored one are in development, and that Tim Cook really wants to beat Meta in the world of smart glasses. Offering more than one model when the time comes for a release would be an easy way to attract more consumers, especially if it lowers the entry price. Even so, we're far out on Apple's rumored smart glasses, as two years puts them at the earliest of 2027, but I'd bet we'll see plenty more rumors and reports in the lead up to that. In the more immediate future, though, Apple's World Wide Developers Conference will kick off on June 9, 2025, and the company should share more about its next-generation platforms and Apple Intelligence at large. Who knows, we might even get a more substantial update for the Vision Pro, which could hint at future glasses.

Apple is working on a chip for smart glasses, report claims

Apple is working on two types of smart glasses, and we might see at least one of them in 2027. Credit: Bloomberg / Getty Images Apple is working on a bunch of specialized chips, and it shows how serious the company is about AI. It also indicates that Apple hasn't given up on its own version of smart glasses. According to a new Bloomberg report, Apple is developing chips for wearable devices, including its first-ever smart glasses. We're not talking about the company's Vision Pro mixed reality headset, but something akin to Ray-Ban's Meta smart glasses, which wear like normal glasses but are equipped with speakers, cameras, and some basic AI capabilities. This particular chip is based on the processor used in the Apple Watch, only it's been customized to make it even more power efficient. It will also be able to control the "multiple cameras" that Apple plans to build into its smart glasses. The chip should be ready for mass production by the end of 2026 or sometime in 2027, meaning that's roughly when Apple could launch the smart glasses. Apple is reportedly working on two different versions of the smart glasses, one simpler, lightweight, and similar to the Ray-Ban Metas, and the other having AR capabilities. Apple is also working on several new chips for Macs, including the ones that will likely launch under the names M6 and M7. There's also a "more advanced" Mac chip being developed, but for that one we know nothing besides the codename: Sotra. Finally, Apple is working on specialized chips for AI servers, coming in 2027. These servers will be the ones remotely processing Apple Intelligence requests from customers -- right now, according to the report, Apple uses its high-end Macs chips for that purpose, such as the M2 Ultra. Ultimately, this means the AI requests would be completed faster, and would open up the path for more powerful AI capabilities down the road.

Looks like Apple isn't giving up on smart glasses after all

Apple is once again late to the party, but there's one way it could still succeed with smart glasses The race to rule the smart glasses market is heating up. While Meta is still leading the way with its Ray-Ban AI smart glasses, Apple appears to be getting back in the game after reports that it has "made progress" in developing a specialty chip for smart glasses, including versions with and without augmented reality. Apple has struggled to make headway in VR with the Vision Pro, where it has also fallen short of Meta's success. Can Apple change that pattern with smart glasses, or is it already too late? See also: Best phone deals in May 2025 According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has "made progress" on a specialty chip designed for smart glasses, which could include versions with and without AR functionality. This comes as a surprise considering rumors earlier this year indicated that Apple had shuttered development of a pair of AR glasses. It looks like Apple isn't giving up on glasses just yet, though. According to Gurman, Apple's new smart glasses chip is based on Apple Watch processors, which are less power and resource-intensive than chips in larger devices like the iPhone or iPad. This new chip has been modified to be even more power-efficient and appears to be designed to control multiple cameras, suggesting Apple will include cameras on its glasses much like those on the Meta Ray-Bans. Those could be used for anything from basic everyday photography to visual input for AI. It sounds like Apple's smart glasses plans are moving past the concept phase at this point since, as Gurman stated, the new smart glasses chip is slated to enter production as early as next year, which means we could potentially see Apple's first pair of glasses hit the market by 2028. That might sound like it's not too far away. Unfortunately for Apple, by 2028 its first pair of smart glasses might already be generations behind the competition. Meta has made it abundantly clear over recent months that smart glasses and AR glasses are a huge focus for it. Last year, Meta showed off a genuinely impressive demo of a prototype of its "Orion" glasses and we're expecting to see a new version of its popular Ray-Ban AI smart glasses later this year. All of that means that by 2028, Meta will likely already be light years ahead of Apple in the glasses market. That's especially probable considering that, according to Gurman, Apple's first pair of smart glasses won't include augmented reality. Meanwhile, there are rumors Meta could launch a version of its Ray-Bans glasses with a built-in display this year. Meta will already be a seasoned veteran with non-AR smart glasses by the time Apple gets in the race in 2028. That's not to say Apple doesn't have a shot at catching up to Meta. It will just be a major challenge, much like Apple's battle to compete with Meta in the VR market, where Apple was similarly late to the party. With that said, there is one area where Apple might have an edge on Meta: privacy. Last month, Meta rolled out a controversial update to its privacy policy for its Meta Ray-Ban glasses that effectively forces users to allow Meta to collect their data if they want to use Meta's AI with the glasses (which is pretty much what the glasses are made for). If Apple can offer comparably stylish, functional, and feature-rich smart glasses with stronger data privacy, it may be able to win some users over from Meta or entice people who might have otherwise skipped smart glasses altogether.

Apple Working on New 'Specialised' Chips: Report

These chips will be integrated into the company's upcoming wearable smart glasses and AI servers. Apple is working on new chips for its upcoming smart wearable glasses, 'more powerful' Macs, and AI servers, according to a Bloomberg report. This indicates progress from the company to compete with Meta's Ray-Ban smart wearable glasses. The Cupertino tech giant is likely to begin mass production of these chips by the end of next year, or in 2027. The report further indicates that the processor designated for these glasses is derived from those used in the Apple Watch, necessitating less energy compared to those found in the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Furthermore, the AI server chips will be designed to process tasks related to Apple Intelligence, which will then be sent to the users' devices. This signifies yet another attempt to improve Apple Intelligence, which has been subjected to significant criticism over the last few months. Eddy Cue, Apple's senior VP of services, revealed that the company plans to integrate AI search in Safari, powered by either Perplexity, Google or OpenAI. Sundar Pichai also revealed that Google is planning to strike a deal with Apple to integrate Gemini into Apple Intelligence this year. CEO Tim Cook, in an interaction with Pichai, said that 'more third-party AI models' would ship to Apple Intelligence this year. This will add to the company's efforts to build powerful, in-house hardware systems, building on the success of the Arm architecture M series chips released a few years ago, which were hailed for exceptional performance and power efficiency. The company recently unveiled its first 'custom-designed' modem chip, as a part of the C1 subsystem integrated in the iPhone 16e. The move is set to reduce the company's reliance on Qualcomm. Recent reports also claimed that Apple plans to integrate cameras into Apple Watch and AirPods. The cameras would help the devices visually observe the user's environment and use AI to deliver appropriate information.

Apple develops new chips for AI smart glasses and Macs

Apple is reportedly developing new chips to drive smart glasses similar to Meta's Ray-Ban Meta, as well as more powerful Macs and AI servers. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman notes that one of the chips is inspired by the Apple Watch's low-power processors. Apple aims to put these chips into mass production with TSMC by the end of next year or 2027, according to the report. Glasses are a significant focus for Apple. Bloomberg has previously reported that Apple CEO Tim Cook is determined to beat Meta in the glasses market, where Meta has seen success in recent years. Since 2023, Meta has sold around 2 million pairs of Ray-Ban Metas. Apple is currently exploring non-AR glasses that use cameras to scan the surrounding environment and rely on AI to assist users. One of the processors under development will be able to control these cameras and other components without draining too much battery, per the report.

Apple is developing specialised chips for glasses, Macs, AI servers

Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Apple's silicon design group is working on new chips that will serve as the brains for future devices, including its first smart glasses, more powerful Macs and artificial intelligence servers. The company has made progress on the chip that it's developing for smart glasses, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The move indicates that Apple is ramping up work on such a device, which would compete with the popular Ray-Ban spectacles offered by Meta Platforms.

Apple makes progress toward its first pair of smart glasses: Report

Apple is reportedly planning to take on Meta with rival smart glasses powered by a new line of microchips. Apple is reportedly working on its own microchips across multiple product categories, including smart glasses and artificial intelligence -- a hint at what's next for the massive Silicon Valley-based tech giant. A May 8 report from Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter, said the company is working on new processors to power its future devices, including its first smart glasses to rival Meta's Ray-Bans, more powerful Macs, and artificial intelligence servers. The smart glasses -- a first for Apple -- would rely on a specialized chip codenamed N401. The processor is based on Apple Watch chips but is further optimized for power efficiency and designed to control multiple cameras planned for the glasses, the sources said. Apple's smart glasses will initially be non-augmented reality versions that will include cameras, microphones and integrated AI, much like rival offerings from Meta. They would presumably have similar functions like snapping photos, recording video and offering translation options, the report added. The product may also integrate a visual intelligence feature for scanning the environment and describing objects, looking up information about products and providing directions. Mass production targeted for late 2026 or 2027, suggesting a product launch within approximately two years, they added. The Bloomberg sources added that other semiconductors were also developing chips to power future Macs and AI servers that can power the firm's "Apple Intelligence" platform. Related: Apple softens crypto-related app rules, 'hugely bullish' for crypto industry Meanwhile, MacRumors reported that chips codenamed "Komodo" will likely be M6 chips that will follow this year's M5 chips, while chips codenamed "Borneo" will be Apple's future M7 processors with another more advanced chip that will debut in the future codenamed "Sotra." Apple is also working on its first dedicated AI server chips in a project codenamed "Baltra" to power its Apple Intelligence platform, according to Bloomberg. The firm's Baltra chips could have up to eight times the processing and graphics cores of the current M3 Ultra chips, the report added. Apple has targeted completion by 2027 to make its AI services faster and more competitive. In late April, it was reported that Chinese tech giant Huawei has developed a powerful AI chip that could rival high-end processors from US chip maker Nvidia.

Apple Is Developing Specialized Chips for Smart Glasses and AI Servers, Bloomberg News Reports

(Reuters) -Apple is developing specialized chips that will power future devices including its first smart glasses, artificial intelligence servers and new MacBooks, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday. The iPhone-maker has made progress on the chip that it's developing for smart glasses, the report said, citing people with knowledge of the matter. This indicates that Apple is doubling-down to compete with the popular Ray-Ban glasses offered by Meta Platforms. Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Other processors in development will serve as the brains of future Macs as well as AI servers that can power the Apple Intelligence platform, according to the report. In a bid to compete in the lucrative AI market, Apple has made efforts to add on-device AI features to its latest line of iPhones with Apple Intelligence -- a suite that helps summarize notifications, rewrite emails and give users access to OpenAI's ChatGPT, among other features. The company has already made strides in the development of in-house silicon and, in February, revealed its first custom-designed modem chip that connects iPhones to wireless data networks. The processor for its glasses is based on chips used in the Apple Watch that require less energy than components in products like the iPhone, iPad and Mac, the report stated. The chip, which could enter mass production by the end of next year or in 2027, has been customized for power efficiency and to control the multiple cameras that are planned for the glasses, Bloomberg reported. The chip will be manufactured by Taiwan's TSMC and the glasses -- if successful -- are likely to come to market in roughly the next two years, the report added. Apple is also working on several new Mac chips, including processors that will likely be known as the M6 and M7, according to the report. (Reporting by Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona)

Apple Is Reportedly Working a Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Competitor

Apple's smart glasses could compete with the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses Apple is working on a chip that could arrive on the company's first smart glasses, according to a report. The iPhone maker is said to be developing a pair of smart glasses that offers support for augmented reality (AR) content, but it could also be working on a pair of spectacles equipped with a camera and microphones, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. Apple's wearable could be launched within the next couple of years, and it will reportedly be equipped by a power efficient in-house chip that is still in development. According to a Bloomberg report citing people aware of the company's plans, Apple's silicon design group is developing a chip that could arrive on a pair of smart glasses that competes with the smart glasses offered by Meta. Launched in 2023, the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses allow users to record videos and capture images, while also offering access to Meta AI. Apple is said to be developing a dedicated chip for the smart glasses, which is based on the System in Package (SiP) used on the Apple Watch. The company reportedly stripped away additional components from the chip, which already offers more power efficiency than its other Apple Silicon chips. Both of Apple's smart glasses (including the one with real AR capabilities) that are in development are codenamed N401, according to the report, and the competitor to the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses could launch within two years. Apple supplier TSMC is said to be expected to begin production of the dedicated chip by 2027. However, Apple might face multiple challenges in launching a pair of smart glasses to compete with Meta's offerings. The Facebook parent firm already has a head start on Apple and plans to launch even more advanced wearables -- including a pair of true AR glasses -- by 2027. The Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses also offer access to the company's Meta AI platform with support for text translation, setting reminders and more. Meanwhile, Apple has yet to announce dedicated AI features designed for wearables. In order to deliver improved battery efficiency, AI processing could be performed on a linked smartphone. A recent report suggests that Meta is looking to equip its smart glasses with a new capability. The company is said to have recently discussed adding facial recognition using the camera on its smart glasses to identify users by name. This could pose a risk to people around those wearing a pair of Meta's smart glasses, as they would have no way to opt out of the service.

Apple is developing specialised chips for smart glasses and AI servers: Bloomberg report

Apple is developing specialised chips that will power future devices including its first smart glasses, artificial intelligence servers and new MacBooks, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday. The iPhone-maker has made progress on the chip that it's developing for smart glasses, the report said, citing people with knowledge of the matter. This indicates that Apple is doubling-down to compete with the popular Ray-Ban glasses offered by Meta Platforms. Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Other processors in development will serve as the brains of future Macs as well as AI servers that can power the Apple Intelligence platform, according to the report. In a bid to compete in the lucrative AI market, Apple has made efforts to add on-device AI features to its latest line of iPhones with Apple Intelligence - a suite that helps summarize notifications, rewrite emails and give users access to OpenAI's ChatGPT, among other features. The company has already made strides in the development of in-house silicon and, in February, revealed its first custom-designed modem chip that connects iPhones to wireless data networks. The processor for its glasses is based on chips used in the Apple Watch that require less energy than components in products like the iPhone, iPad and Mac, the report stated. The chip, which could enter mass production by the end of next year or in 2027, has been customized for power efficiency and to control the multiple cameras that are planned for the glasses, Bloomberg reported. The chip will be manufactured by Taiwan's TSMC and the glasses - if successful - are likely to come to market in roughly the next two years, the report added. Apple is also working on several new Mac chips, including processors that will likely be known as the M6 and M7, according to the report.

Apple's Upcoming Chip Aims To Challenge Meta In Smart Glasses Battle: Report - Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), Intel (NASDAQ:INTC)

Feel unsure about the market's next move? Copy trade alerts from Matt Maley -- a Wall Street veteran who consistently finds profits in volatile markets. Claim your 7-day free trial now. Apple Inc. AAPL is developing new chips that could intensify its rivalry with Meta Platforms Inc.'s META Ray-Ban glasses. Meta's latest Ray-Ban smart glasses, launched in September, start at $299 and feature Meta AI, a camera, call-making capabilities, and built-in speakers. The iPhonemaker's chips will serve as the brains for devices, including its first smart glasses, Macs, and artificial intelligence servers, Bloomberg reported on Thursday. Also Read: Meta Planning To Drop $1,000 Smart Glasses With Hand Gesture Control As It Takes On Apple: Report Apple's silicon team, which is developing the chips, assumed importance after it dumped Intel Corp INTC processors for its in-house Mac chips in 2020. The glasses processor is based on Apple Watch chips, which require less energy than the ones in iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The processor will be able to control the glasses' multiple cameras. Apple targets the commercialization of the processor by 2026 or 2027. Apple is exploring non-AR glasses that use cameras to scan the surrounding environment and rely on AI to assist users. February reports indicated that the M5 chip, likely to power Apple's upcoming MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro, has entered mass production. The Vision Pro will likely benefit most from the M5 chip, especially with the addition of Apple Intelligence features to the spatial computer, which the current M2-powered model lacks. The M5 chip will likely leverage the 3nm N3P architecture. It is worth noting that Meta sold 1 million sets of its Ray-Ban glasses in 2024 and its aggregate virtual and augmented reality investment will likely surpass $100 billion in 2025. Price Action: AAPL shares are trading higher by 0.41% at $198.29 at last check on Friday. Read Next: Disney's Streaming Gains, Park Strength, Cash Flow Drive Analyst Optimism Photo by Ringo Chiu via Shutterstock AAPLApple Inc $197.900.21% Stock Score Locked: Want to See it? Benzinga Rankings give you vital metrics on any stock - anytime. Reveal Full Score Edge Rankings Momentum 49.76 Growth 46.18 Quality 82.46 Value 8.77 Price Trend Short Medium Long Overview INTCIntel Corp $20.88-0.58% METAMeta Platforms Inc $597.21-0.13% Got Questions? Ask Which companies will benefit from Apple's chip? How will Meta's market share be impacted by Apple? Which AR technology stocks could surge due to competition? How will Apple's smart glasses influence market dynamics? What other industries could see growth from smart glasses? Which AI firms may gain from Apple's new processor? How will the consumer electronics market react to this rivalry? What potential investments arise from Apple's tech advancements? Could chip manufacturers see increased demand from Apple? How might retailers position themselves for new smart glasses? Powered By Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

Apple's Smart Glass Ambitions Take Shape with New Chip in the Works

The company is expected to start production of this chipset by the start of 2027, hinting at a potential release some time in the next two years. Ever since they released their Vision Pro, Apple has been working on ways to offer AR and VR experience to more users. With two upcoming Vision Pro models already in the works, it appears that Apple now wants a piece of Meta's smart glass market and it's already developing a new chip that will power these glasses. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is making progress on the chip that's going to be power its potential smart glasses. It will be based on the company's Apple Watch processors, since it'll primarily use less energy. To make it more power efficient, Apple has removed some parts of the chips. The report points that Apple's smart glasses chip is designed to "control multiple cameras". These cameras will "scan the surrounding environment" and "assist users" using AI. Mass production of this smart glasses chip could commence by the end of 2026 or by the start of 2027. The company will likely rely on their long-term partner, TSMC for the production of this chip. So, if everything goes as planned, we may see Apple's version of smart glasses within two years. Besides this, Apple is also developing smart glasses that use augmented reality. This will be similar to Meta's Orion glasses that the latter revealed last year. Seeing Meta's success with their non-AR smart glasses, Apple looks all set to enter the smart glasses market while working on AR glasses in parallel. Smart glasses aren't the only thing in the works. The Cupertino company is betting on adding cameras to AirPods and watches, and on developing chips for both products. Beyond that, Apple is working on SoCs for other products. These include the M6 (Komodo), M7 (Borneo), and Sotra chips for the Mac. And then, there's the M5 chip for Pro models of iPad and MacBook. What do you think Apple's smart glasses will be like? Do you think they'll be able to compete with Meta's Ray Ban glasses? Let us know in the comments.

Apple developing custom chips for smart glasses and AI servers: Report

Apple is reportedly developing specialized chips for smart glasses and AI servers, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The company's silicon design team is also working on processors for future Macs, aiming to support a wider range of upcoming devices. Sources familiar with the matter, who spoke anonymously due to the private nature of the plans, said the tech giant is making progress on a dedicated chip for smart glasses. This suggests a ramp-up in efforts to create a product that could rival Meta Platforms Inc.'s Ray-Ban smart eyewear. Mass production of the chip is expected to begin between late 2026 and 2027, the report noted, with the smart glasses potentially launching within two years. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. will handle chip production, continuing its long-standing role in fabricating the company's key silicon components. The report added that the company is also working on processors for AI servers that will support its Apple Intelligence platform. These chips, part of an internal initiative known as Baltra, are targeted for completion by 2027. Unlike the M2 Ultra used in high-end Macs for AI workloads, the new chips are being custom-built for server-side processing. It is considering architectures with significantly higher capabilities, possibly featuring two, four, or even eight times the CPU and GPU cores found in the M3 Ultra. The Information noted that Broadcom Inc. is collaborating on this effort. In the Mac segment, the company is preparing multiple processors, including the M6 (codenamed Komodo) and M7 (internally referred to as Borneo). Another high-end chip, Sotra, is also in development. Meanwhile, the M5 processor is expected to be integrated into upcoming iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models, with availability anticipated by the end of 2025.

Apple reportedly working on new chips for smart glasses, Macs and AI servers: What we know

AI server chips are expected to enhance Apple Intelligence performance, targeting a 2027 release. Apple is reportedly working on a new processor lineup that will power upcoming products such as smart glasses, Macs, and artificial intelligence servers. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, citing insiders, the company's silicon team is making progress, with chips in development that could power future devices. According to the report, the tech giant is developing a specialised chipset for its highly anticipated smart glasses, which will compete with Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. He went on to say that the processor, which is based on the Apple Watch chip's energy-efficient architecture, is being customised to deliver low power consumption while maintaining performance. It will be able to control multiple cameras designed for smart glasses, allowing it to capture real-world views and interact with apps. Also read: GTA 6 trailer 2 is out: From new characters to map, here is what you can expect The chip's mass production is expected to begin by the end of 2026 or early 2027, according to the report. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) would handle production. Aside from wearables, the company is developing next-generation processors for its Mac lineup, such as the M6 (Komodo) and M7 (Borneo). According to the report, the company is also developing a more advanced Mac chip, possibly known as Sotra. Furthermore, the company is looking into AI server chips. It will be intended to improve the performance of Apple Intelligence, which is currently under fire for a staggered rollout. These chips are said to provide better performance than the M3 Ultra. Regarding the timeline, the report stated that it could be completed by 2027. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly considering incorporating cameras into its wearable products, such as AirPods and Apple Watch. These new products will be powered by new chips, which are expected to be released by 2027. However, the exact confirmation for the devices is unknown.