In a surprising turn of events, Apple has reportedly scrapped its plans to introduce a camera-equipped Apple Watch, a feature speculated to debut in 2027 models, including the Apple Watch Series 12 and Watch Ultra 4. According to a recent Bloomberg report, the tech giant is redirecting its efforts toward developing AI-powered smart glasses, aiming for a 2026 launch to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Why Apple Abandoned the Smartwatch Camera
Rumors about a camera on the Apple Watch have circulated since 2019, with patents suggesting potential placements in the Digital Crown or watch strap. The envisioned camera was not intended for traditional photography or FaceTime but for AI-driven features like Visual Intelligence, similar to the iPhone’s ability to analyze surroundings and provide contextual information, such as identifying objects or offering directions. However, Apple has now halted this project, with sources citing technical challenges due to the Apple Watch’s compact size as a likely reason.
Mark Gurman, Bloomberg’s Apple analyst, reported on May 23, 2025, that the company shelved the camera project this week, focusing instead on other AI-enhanced devices. The decision may also reflect Apple’s strategic pivot to prioritize smart glasses, which are seen as a more practical platform for integrating cameras and AI functionalities.
Apple’s Smart Glasses: The Next Big Thing?
Apple’s shift to smart glasses, codenamed Project N401, signals its ambition to capture the growing market for AI-enhanced wearables. The glasses, expected to launch by the end of 2026, will feature cameras, microphones, and speakers, enabling Siri-driven interactions and AI capabilities akin to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses. Bloomberg reports that Apple is developing a custom chip for these glasses, with prototype production set to begin later this year with overseas partners.
Unlike the abandoned Apple Watch camera, which faced spatial constraints, smart glasses offer a larger form factor, making them more suitable for embedding cameras and supporting real-time AI processing. This move positions Apple to compete directly with Meta and Google, which recently showcased its Android XR glasses with Gemini AI integration.
Camera-Equipped AirPods Still in Development
While the Apple Watch camera project has been canceled, Apple is reportedly continuing to develop AirPods with infrared cameras, potentially launching in 2026 or 2027. These cameras would enable features like enhanced spatial audio and in-air gesture controls, further integrating Apple Intelligence into its wearable ecosystem. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously noted that mass production of these AirPods could begin in 2026, suggesting Apple’s commitment to camera-enabled wearables beyond the smartwatch.
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Impact on Apple Watch Users
For Apple Watch enthusiasts, the cancellation of the camera feature may be disappointing but not entirely surprising. The small size of the Apple Watch posed significant challenges for integrating a camera without compromising battery life or design aesthetics. Instead, Apple is likely to focus on enhancing other features, such as advanced health sensors or improved AI coaching, for the Apple Watch Series 11 and future models, expected in 2025.
Despite the setback, the Apple Watch remains a leader in the smartwatch market, with the Series 10 and Ultra 2 praised for their fitness tracking, ECG capabilities, and seamless iPhone integration. The shift away from a camera suggests Apple is prioritizing practicality and user experience over experimental features.
What’s Next for Apple’s Wearable Ecosystem?
Apple’s decision to abandon the camera-equipped Apple Watch reflects a broader strategy to refine its wearable lineup. The focus on smart glasses and camera-enabled AirPods indicates a commitment to AI-driven innovation, aligning with industry trends toward augmented reality and contextual computing. As Apple prepares to challenge Meta and Google in the smart glasses market, consumers can expect a new era of wearables that prioritize intelligence and connectivity over traditional features like photography.
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