Shocking: Apple Watch AI Revolution

Apple Working on Turning Watches Into AI Devices With Cameras – Bloomberg

Meta’s AI-Powered Smart Glasses and Wearables

Design and Features

The biggest upgrade this year will be a new higher-end offering that uses a design that’s closer to the current Ray-Ban glasses. Code-named “Hypernova,” this model will include a display on the bottom portion of the right lens that projects information into a user’s field of view. People would be able to run simple software apps, view notifications and see photos taken by the device — capabilities that get a bit closer to the long-promised AR experience.

That product line, internally code-named “Supernova,” will be expanded in three major ways. First, the company is planning to introduce its current Ray-Ban glasses to new markets. Second, Meta is broadening its smart glasses technology to other fashion brands owned by partner Luxottica Group SA. That includes a new version — dubbed “Supernova 2” — that is based on Oakley’s Sphaera glasses. This model, which shifts the camera to the center of the glasses frame, will be aimed at cyclists and other athletes.

Expansion and Competition

Meta is testing an approach that lets users rely on a wrist strap — dubbed “Ceres” — to control the glasses. The Menlo Park, California-based company has discussed offering this accessory in the same box as the Hypernova spectacles, which will also have touch controls on the frame’s temple. The temple approach would be the standard input method if the wrist accessory doesn’t pass muster.

Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality

Meta’s effort to embed AI features into more products includes developing Oakley-branded smart glasses for athletes this year, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Meta’s devices group, Reality Labs, also plans to release new high-end glasses with a built-in display in 2025, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the initiatives haven’t been announced.

Some employees involved in the project expect the Hypernova glasses to cost around $1,000, compared with a $299 starting price for the current Meta Ray-Bans. For about half a decade, Meta has explored releasing a smartwatch that would compete with models from Apple, Samsung Electronics Co. and others. Over the years, the company has changed the project’s details and priorities, and it’s canceled and uncanceled the device multiple times.

Meta is now again weighing the idea of releasing a watch as early as this year — with a display that would be able to show photos taken with the company’s smart glasses. For now, Meta’s glasses are essentially an accessory to users’ smartphones — rather than a true replacement. But the company is making headway on its first true augmented reality product — a holy grail for the tech industry — for release around 2027.

The effort includes developing Oakley-branded smart glasses for athletes this year, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Meta’s devices group, Reality Labs, also plans to release new high-end glasses with a built-in display in 2025, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the initiatives haven’t been announced.

Wrist Strap Controller

Apple is reportedly exploring innovative ways to control its smart glasses through a wrist strap controller, code-named “Ceres.” This wrist strap is designed to provide users with an intuitive method to interact with the glasses, potentially revolutionizing the way we control our wearable devices.

Ceres Wrist Strap for Controlling the Glasses

The Ceres wrist strap is inspired by Meta’s Orion prototype AR glasses, which utilized a similar wrist controller. This accessory would allow users to navigate through menus, select options, and perform various tasks without needing to touch the glasses directly. The integration of the Ceres strap aims to enhance user experience by providing a more ergonomic and natural way to control the smart glasses.

One of the key features of the Ceres wrist strap is its potential to include haptic feedback, which can provide tactile responses to user inputs. This feature can make interactions with the smart glasses more immersive and responsive, akin to using a traditional touchscreen but without the need to look down at a device. The wrist strap could also include buttons or sensors that users can press or swipe, adding another layer of control options.

According to internal sources, Apple is considering offering the Ceres wrist strap as an accessory with the Hypernova glasses, which are the high-end version of their smart glasses. The Hypernova glasses themselves will feature a display on the bottom portion of the right lens, projecting information directly into the user’s field of view. This design aims to provide a seamless blend of augmented reality (AR) and real-world interaction, allowing users to view notifications, run simple software apps, and see photos taken by the device.

Temple Approach as Standard Input Method

In addition to the Ceres wrist strap, Apple is also developing touch controls on the temple of the smart glasses. This approach would serve as the standard input method if the wrist strap does not meet user expectations. The temple controls would allow users to swipe, tap, or press on the side of the glasses to perform various actions, similar to how one might interact with a smartphone.

The temple approach has the advantage of being a familiar and intuitive method for many users, who are already accustomed to interacting with touch-sensitive surfaces on their smartphones and other devices. This method could also be more accessible for users who may find the wrist strap less comfortable or convenient.

Both the wrist strap and temple controls are part of Apple’s broader strategy to create a versatile and user-friendly interface for their smart glasses. By offering multiple input methods, Apple aims to cater to different user preferences and needs, ensuring that everyone can interact with the device in a way that feels natural and intuitive.

Smartwatch Possibilities

While Apple has been focusing on its smart glasses, the company is also exploring the possibility of releasing a smartwatch to compete with existing models from Apple and Samsung. This smartwatch would serve as a complementary device to the smart glasses, potentially showing photos taken with the glasses and providing additional functionality.

Meta’s Plans to Release a Smartwatch Competing with Apple and Samsung

Meta Platforms Inc. has been exploring the idea of releasing a smartwatch for several years, with various changes in the project’s details and priorities. The company has even canceled and reinstated the project multiple times, indicating a level of uncertainty about its viability. However, recent developments suggest that Meta is once again seriously considering releasing a smartwatch as early as this year.

The smartwatch would feature a display capable of showing photos taken with Meta’s smart glasses, among other functionalities. This integration would create a seamless ecosystem where users can capture photos with their glasses and view them instantly on their wrist. The smartwatch could also serve as a control hub for the glasses, allowing users to manage settings, notifications, and other features without needing to interact with the glasses directly.

Meta’s smartwatch would likely compete with Apple’s Watch and Samsung’s Galaxy Watch, both of which have established a strong presence in the market. By entering this space, Meta aims to diversify its product offerings and provide users with a more comprehensive set of wearable devices. The smartwatch would also serve as another platform for Meta to integrate its AI features, further solidifying its position as an AI innovator.

Display Showing Photos Taken with Smart Glasses

One of the key features of Meta’s smartwatch would be its ability to display photos taken with the smart glasses. This functionality would provide users with a convenient way to view and share photos without needing to pull out their smartphones. The smartwatch could also be used to edit photos, apply filters, and perform other basic photo-editing tasks, making it a versatile tool for content creation.

The integration of the smartwatch with the smart glasses would create a cohesive ecosystem where users can seamlessly switch between devices and perform various tasks. For example, users could capture a photo with the glasses, view it on the smartwatch, and then share it on social media or with friends. This level of integration would enhance the overall user experience and make the devices more appealing to consumers.

In addition to displaying photos, the smartwatch could also serve as a hub for managing notifications, controlling smart home devices, and tracking fitness metrics. This would make it a valuable accessory for users who are already invested in the smart glasses ecosystem, providing them with a more comprehensive set of tools to manage their digital lives.

Implications and Analysis

Price and Accessibility

One of the biggest challenges for wearable devices is their price point, which can significantly impact accessibility and mass adoption. Apple’s smart glasses, especially the high-end Hypernova model, are expected to carry a higher price tag. According to internal sources, the Hypernova glasses could cost around $1,000, compared to the current Meta Ray-Ban glasses, which start at $299. This significant price difference could make the Hypernova glasses less accessible to a broader range of consumers.

The higher price tag for the Hypernova glasses is justified by the advanced features and design, including the display on the right lens and the potential integration with the Ceres wrist strap. However, this price point may limit the device’s appeal to early adopters and tech enthusiasts who are willing to invest in cutting-edge technology. For mass adoption, Apple may need to consider offering more affordable versions or introducing more budget-friendly models in the future.

Meta’s smartwatch, if released, could also face similar challenges in terms of pricing. The company needs to strike a balance between offering advanced features and maintaining a competitive price point. If the smartwatch is priced too high, it may struggle to compete with established players like Apple and Samsung. On the other hand, if it is priced too low, it may not attract users who are looking for premium features and performance.

Practical Applications and Use Cases

The smart glasses and smartwatch combination could offer a wide range of practical applications and use cases, making them valuable tools for everyday use. One of the primary use cases is running simple software apps, such as messaging, navigation, and media playback. Users could use the glasses to receive notifications, make calls, and listen to music without needing to pull out their smartphones.

Another use case is viewing photos taken with the smart glasses. The ability to view and share photos directly from the glasses would make them a valuable tool for content creators and social media users. Users could capture and share moments in real-time, making the glasses a compelling accessory for those who want to stay connected and engaged with their audience.

For athletes and cyclists, the Supernova 2 model, based on Oakley’s Sphaera glasses, could be particularly useful. This model features a camera positioned in the center of the glasses frame, allowing users to capture photos and videos from a unique perspective. The glasses could also provide real-time data and analytics, such as heart rate, speed, and distance, making them a valuable tool for training and performance tracking.

The smartwatch could also be used to view and manage photos taken with the smart glasses, providing a convenient way to access and share content. Additionally, the smartwatch could serve as a hub for managing notifications, controlling smart home devices, and tracking fitness metrics. This would make it a versatile tool for users who want to stay connected and manage their digital lives on the go.

In the workplace, the smart glasses could be used for augmented reality applications, such as training, maintenance, and remote collaboration. Users could use the glasses to view digital overlays, instructions, and other information, making complex tasks more manageable and efficient. The smartwatch could serve as a control hub for these applications, allowing users to manage settings and notifications without needing to interact with the glasses directly.

Future of Wearables and AI

The integration of AI features into wearable devices represents a significant step forward in the evolution of technology. By embedding AI into smart glasses and smartwatches, companies like Apple and Meta are aiming to create a new era of computing that is more intuitive, responsive, and integrated into our daily lives.

The smart glasses, with their ability to project information into the user’s field of view, are a step closer to the long-promised AR experience. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world, providing a seamless blend of real-world and virtual experiences. The smartwatch, with its ability to display photos and manage notifications, serves as a complementary device, enhancing the overall user experience.

As AI continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications and use cases for wearable devices. For example, AI could be used to provide real-time translations, personalized recommendations, and contextual information, making wearable devices even more valuable for everyday use. The integration of AI into wearable devices also opens up new possibilities for health and wellness applications, such as personalized fitness plans, mental health monitoring, and remote healthcare.

In conclusion, the development of smart glasses and smartwatches by Apple and Meta represents a significant step forward in the evolution of wearable technology. These devices have the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world, providing a seamless blend of real-world and virtual experiences. As AI continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications and use cases for wearable devices, making them an essential part of our daily lives.