Apple targets WWDC 2027 for privacy-focused smart glasses

Apple plans to unveil its first smart glasses at WWDC 2027 next June, with privacy expected to be a central selling point, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

Apple is prototyping “a slew of new hardware and software-related privacy features” that are not available in current products, Gurman said. He did not identify specific features, but reported that Apple will likely contrast its approach with rival products such as the Meta Ray-Bans.

The company has reportedly considered several camera configurations. One option would use cameras to support AI features while preventing photo and video recording. Apple has also prototyped glasses with no camera system at all. The most likely outcome, however, is a camera-equipped design with privacy protections aligned with Apple’s broader product strategy.

Like Meta’s glasses, Apple’s model is expected to include speakers and microphones for music, phone calls, and notifications announced by Siri. Apple apparently aims to begin shipping the glasses to customers in late 2027.

The privacy challenge is particularly visible for camera-equipped glasses, as some people worry they could be used to record others secretly. Apple’s design and marketing will likely address that concern directly as it enters a category already established by Meta’s Ray-Bans.

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