The first HomePod could actually have been what is popularly known as AI hardware – interaction with a device via natural language. Although Siri is not an LLM-based system (many of the answers are simply editorial and static), users should still operate it simply by using spoken instructions. Apparently they initially wanted to market the HomePod as a Siri speaker, but they knew about the language assistant’s weaknesses, which is why Siri only played a subordinate role in marketing. The upcoming Siri generation should give Apple a lot of leeway when it comes to new hardware. For example, the “HomePad” was often mentioned as the control center of the smart home – which reportedly did not appear because Siri was not enough. According to Bloomberg, Apple has now accelerated the development of AI hardware, and the Gemini-based assistant will now play an important role.
Glasses – with integrated battery
While the Vision Pro is a niche product, normal-looking glasses with computer functionality are set to become the next big thing. Apple has been working on such concepts for years and, according to the report, has now distributed working prototypes to in-house hardware teams. Similar to the Ray-Ban Meta, these are glasses housings with integrated cameras and sensors that record the surroundings. There are no integrated displays; interaction takes place via voice. Apple has now managed to accommodate the battery directly in the housing, whereas previously it worked with external power storage. According to current plans, Apple Glasses will be brought onto the market next year.
An AI pin – similar to the failed Humane
The Humane AI Pin was an interesting concept. The start-up, founded by former Apple employees, aimed to open the next big chapter in mobile technology. Without using a smartphone, the badge should have served as an AI-based companion in all situations – the wearer’s hand acted as a projection surface and display replacement. However, the device failed due to poor implementation. Lack of reliability and massive heat development with permanent emergency shutdowns led to dissatisfaction and ultimately failure.
Apple, on the other hand, wants to do better and aim for a similar form factor, but learn from its mistakes, according to Bloomberg. The pin should be understood as the “eyes and ears of the iPhone” and not as a smartphone replacement. This allows the iPhone to take over the computing work and thus provide more functions than if the pin had to do everything itself. The final decision as to whether the accessories will be ready for the market has not yet been made – but if there is the green light, 2027 is also conceivable.
AirPods with camera
The development of new AirPods with cameras is most advanced – not to take photos, but to record the surroundings. This would also create new opportunities in areas such as visual intelligence. According to Bloomberg, we are already at the point where a market launch would be possible next fall. But the iPhone takes on the most important role, because even if the AirPods receive additional sensors, they are not dedicated AI hardware like the pin or glasses.
