Apple will unveil a product in a new category at the next WWDC, what will it be?

After the huge excitement generated in 2026 by the release of the beta version of iOS 27 and the AI-powered features developed for Siri, the attention of the tech world is already shifting toward the developers conference planned for next year.

According to recent information released by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the Cupertino company is preparing to unveil its first smart glasses during the WWDC 2027.

The device, currently known by the codename N50, was originally supposed to debut at the end of this year. However, an inevitable delay pushed the presentation to June of next year, with shipments expected in the last months of 2027.

Da quasi un decennio, rumors about Apple’s entry into the smart glasses space have become increasingly persistent.

Nine years ago, prominent analysts such as Gene Munster speculated that this particular device would take on colossal proportions, eventually even replacing the iPhone in consumers’ daily habits.

The technical and marketing divisions are currently hard at work refining every minute detail.

The delay relative to the initial timetable is not only tied to design assessments or software stability, but mainly stems from the need to structure a reassuring and transparent message regarding personal data handling and video recording.

Protecting personal space represents the main hurdle for mass adoption. The market has not forgotten the decidedly turbulent reception given to Google Glass, whose users were often accused of secretly recording passersby.

That experience left a deep legacy of distrust. Even though current devices, such as those marketed by Meta and the upcoming versions from Samsung, use dedicated light indicators to signal camera activation, public resistance remains very high.

Courts in New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin have categorically banned the use of these accessories. Similarly strict rules have been introduced by companies such as Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., which prohibits their use in bathrooms, in areas designated for children and, to prevent potential fraud, inside the casinos on cruise ships.

Similar restrictions are also widespread within American hospitals, schools and theaters.

Cameras, Artificial Intelligence, and Commercial Choices

To overcome these limitations, the industry is exploring alternative paths. Meta is considering the possibility of launching sensor-free models for recording, and Apple itself has already built prototypes with no camera integrated.

Another route being considered by the California company involves adding lenses whose sole purpose would be to send images to AI tools, allowing the system to recognize objects and surrounding places without, however, taking photographs or recording video.

This dynamic would leverage the same Visual Intelligence features present on the iPhone and is an approach currently being studied also for the new AirPods.

Completely giving up camera functions represents, however, a considerable risk: users of Meta’s models greatly appreciate the ease with which they can capture their holidays or family moments.

Apple will need to weigh this decision carefully, as AI-powered voice and vision functionalities alone might not be considered a sufficiently strong reason to justify purchasing the glasses by the general public.