Everything you need to know about Apple Glasses

The new Apple Glasses could redefine wearable technology. Here’s everything we know so far.

In May 2020, a much-anticipated announcement was leaked and gave us a better look at what to expect from the mysterious AR lenses thanks to Front Page Tech host Jon Prosser. Unfortunately, it is now the end of 2021, and we remain relatively in the dark other than some leaks and rumours. We had hoped that the official announcement would come sooner rather than later, but while we wait, let’s look at what we know so far. 

Release date of Apple Glasses

In a report from Bloomberg, the world could have its first glimpse at the Apple Glasses by 2023 at the earliest. An internal Apple presentation that was leaked confirms this by setting the launch date as 2023. Top analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TFI Asset Management has predicted that Apple’s computerized glasses will be as powerful as its Mac computers and launch at the end of 2022.

As of 10th of July 2021, The Information reported that Apple Glass lenses had completed the prototype stage and entered trial production, an important milestone in bringing Apple’s wearable device to market.

Details around Apple Glasses

The Information report states that employees who attended the meeting said Apple Vice President Mike Rockwell revealed information about the design and features of the AR Apple headset and AR Apple glasses. Kuo said Apple would position the glasses as an iPhone accessory, not a replacement for the iPhone, playing well into Apple’s strategy of selling wearable accessories like AirPods and Apple Watches tied to its flagship product, the iPhone.

In the report released by Bloomberg, the Apple Glasses “are expected to synchronize with a wearer’s iPhone to display things such as texts, emails, maps, and games over the user’s field of vision.” One exciting rumor around the glasses features is that users will no longer need to use prescription glasses as the Apple Glasses will automatically adjust for those with poor eyesight. 

One of the new Apple patents reveals that Apple Glasses may help users see better in the dark via depth sensors that provide a better view of the world around you.

Price of Apple Glasses

Prosser has suggested that the Apple Glasses will be priced at £373,75 (US$499), plus prescription fees. This may seem relatively low for the new technology, however Apple Glasses will rely on the iPhone as a companion for data processing.  

Apple Glass privacy and patents

While this technology is exciting, it is also important to understand how it could be used and protect people’s privacy. A new patent application from Apple that the US Patent Office published has made it clear that Apple understands the issue of privacy and will address it in designing its future products.

One option that Apple has explored is allowing for the camera module to be removable. “The modular accessory would also make it possible for venues such as bars and theatres to ban the modular accessory while still allowing the HMD frame (without the accessory) into the venues,” the patent reads. Unlike previous smart glasses, Apple is also exploring using lights within the glasses so that anyone close by can see that someone is recording. 

Acceptance and suspicions of Apple Glasses

As mentioned by ComputerWorld, there will be resistance due to most businesses and people being suspicious due to the glasses being equipped with always-on video and audio sensors. Apple’s commitment to privacy and processing through the use of edge devices instead of the cloud could help in improving views on the glasses.

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However, when it comes to businesses, until they are 100% sure about the privacy and security of their corporate information and procedures.  While many may be suspicious of the Apple Glasses, there will also be widespread acceptance from various industries such as retail, medical, emergency services and law enforcement. It may be helpful in saving someone’s life or help emergency responders to communicate effectively with one another in an emergency. 

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