Apple reportedly developing AI wearable device

Apple is reportedly developing a new AI wearable device, marking the company’s latest move into the hardware space. According to a report published Wednesday by The Information, the device is designed as a pin that users can wear on their clothing. The rumored hardware is described as a thin, flat, circular disc featuring an aluminum-and-glass shell. Apple engineers reportedly hope to make the device the same size as an AirTag—Apple’s wireless tracking device—though slightly thicker. To support its artificial intelligence capabilities, the device will reportedly feature two cameras—one with a standard lens and another with a wide-angle lens for pictures and video—alongside three microphones. It is also expected to include a physical button, a speaker, and a charging strip on its back.

Apple may be attempting to accelerate the development of this product to compete directly with OpenAI, which is also moving into the physical device space. On Monday, OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane told an audience at Davos that his company will likely announce its highly anticipated first AI hardware device in the second half of this year. Lehane’s comments on Monday highlight OpenAI’s own timeline for entering the hardware market. In response to this intensifying competition, the report notes that the Apple device could potentially be released in 2027. The launch could potentially involve 20 million units, representing Apple’s target for the initial release of the wearable pin.

Despite the high-profile push from major tech firms, the consumer market for dedicated AI wearables remains highly unproven. The risks of the category are highlighted by the rapid collapse of Humane AI, a startup founded by former Apple employees that previously sold its own AI pin. Like Apple’s rumored device, the Humane AI pin featured built-in microphones and a camera, but it struggled to find traction with consumers upon its release. Consequently, Humane AI was forced to shut down its operations and sell its assets to HP within two years of its product launch. HP, the technology hardware company, acquired these assets after Humane AI’s operations ceased.

Why it matters

The development of an AI wearable by Apple signals that the AI hardware market is heating up, with competition intensifying against rivals like OpenAI.