Apple is reportedly in the early stages of developing a wearable artificial intelligence (AI) pin, according to "The Information." Concurrently, reports indicate the company plans a significant overhaul of its Siri voice assistant, aiming to transform it into a generative AI-powered chatbot, with Google's Gemini expected to provide some of its core AI capabilities.
Wearable AI Pin Development
The reported AI pin is described as a small, thin, flat, and circular disc, somewhat resembling a slightly thicker AirTag. Constructed with an aluminum and glass exterior, the device is expected to integrate multiple features:
- Cameras: Two cameras, offering standard and wide-angle capabilities for capturing photos and videos of the user's surroundings.
- Audio: Three microphones and a speaker.
- Interface: A physical button located along one edge.
- Charging: Support for wireless charging, likely through a magnetic inductive interface similar to the Apple Watch.
While still in early development, with potential for cancellation, "The Information" suggests a possible release as early as 2027. Apple is reportedly planning an initial production of approximately 20 million units.
The potential utility of such a device is understood as a conduit for accessing Siri, particularly for users who may not utilize an Apple Watch, AirPods, or an iPhone. This initiative follows Apple's delayed entry into other hardware categories, such as foldable smartphones and smart rings.
Siri Revamp and AI Integration
Alongside the AI pin reports, Bloomberg has indicated Apple's plans to revamp Siri into a conversational, ChatGPT-style chatbot. This aligns with broader industry trends in generative AI. Key aspects of this development include:
- Generative AI Focus: The transformation aims to leverage generative AI technologies, reflecting an increased focus on this sector by Apple.
- Partnerships: Apple has previously partnered with OpenAI for Siri's Apple Intelligence features and is reportedly planning to integrate Google's Gemini for future Siri AI upgrades and foundational models.
Market Context and Competitors
Apple's reported exploration of an AI pin enters a nascent but competitive market for wearable AI devices. Other companies have also pursued or launched similar initiatives:
- OpenAI: Explored an unreleased AI pin.
- Humane: Released an AI pin that faced initial challenges.
- Meta: Offers Ray-Ban smart glasses with integrated AI and has plans for future AI hardware.
- Google: Is developing its Android XR platform to integrate Gemini AI and has demonstrated AR glasses prototypes.
- Samsung: Has introduced Galaxy XR.
- Xreal: Has demonstrated Project Aura glasses.
Apple's existing ecosystem already incorporates AI and Siri functionalities through devices like the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. The Apple Watch currently performs various Siri and AI-related tasks independently, with cellular models offering enhanced communication features. Rumors also suggest future AirPods and AirPods Pro models may include infrared cameras for features such as hand gestures and environmental awareness, potentially supporting Apple Intelligence, alongside existing features like heart rate tracking in AirPods Pro 3. Apple has reportedly ceased plans for Apple Watch cameras, with Bloomberg suggesting a focus on smart glasses this year.
Privacy Considerations
The development of camera-equipped wearable devices has introduced privacy considerations. Concerns have been noted regarding the public display of such devices, with Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses facing restrictions in various venues. User experiences with devices like the Humane AI Pin and Xreal’s smart glasses have included public questioning about camera usage.
Discussions suggest that while smartphone camera usage is generally discernible, a discreet AI pin could potentially raise different privacy concerns due to its less obvious nature. Even with capture notifications, the possibility of circumvention is a consideration.
The Information acknowledges that the Apple AI pin project is in its early stages and may not ultimately proceed to launch. Apple's reliance on standalone AI hardware is comparatively less than some other companies in the sector.