CUPERTINO: Apple is no stranger to redefining categories, from the smartphone to the smartwatch. Now, reliable reports indicate the company is exploring a bold new form factor: a wearable AI Pin.
According to a report by The Information, Apple engineers are actively developing a screenless device intended to be worn on clothing. If it survives the prototyping phase, this device could hit the market as early as 2027.
What Does It Look Like?
The device is described as being similar in size to an AirTag, but slightly thicker to accommodate powerful internals. It reportedly features a premium aluminum and glass shell with a magnetic locking mechanism, likely allowing it to clip securely onto shirts or jackets.
Key Specs & Features
Unlike the iPhone, this device is designed for “ambient computing”—it works in the background without demanding your attention.
- Dual Cameras: It is rumored to house two front-facing cameras (one standard, one wide-angle) to capture the world around you and analyze objects using visual intelligence.
- Audio Mastery: The device will feature three microphones for crystal-clear voice commands and a built-in speaker for responses.
- Controls: While primarily voice-driven, it will include a single physical button for tactile control.
- Charging: It is expected to use a magnetic inductive charging system, similar to the Apple Watch puck.
Why This Matters
This move comes after the high-profile failure of the Humane AI Pin, a similar device launched by former Apple employees that was panned for poor battery life and overheating.
Industry analysts believe Apple has the one advantage Humane didn’t: The Ecosystem. This device likely won’t try to replace your iPhone entirely but will act as a powerful accessory to it, handling quick queries, visual lookups, and translations via the new Apple Intelligence framework.