Apple delays its Samsung smart glasses competitor to 2027

In addition to the intelligent eyewear it's developing alongside Google, Qualcomm, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster, Samsung also has its own Galaxy-branded smart glasses in the pipeline that may launch later this year.

Apple was expected to come out with a competitor to this product in 2026 as well, but a new report claims that the company has delayed the launch of its smart glasses.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says that Apple has delayed the internal launch timeline for its first AI-powered smart glasses from late 2026 to early 2027. Internal launch doesn't mean public release, and Gurman claims that these glasses may not be released until the end of 2027.

The reason for the delay is said to be difficultities in perfecting the various visual AI features this device will have. The decision to delay the launch has reportedly been made as Apple wants to avoid shipping an unpolished product.

Only a few details are provided about Apple's smart glasses. They're said to function as a hardware platform for Apple Intelligence. The first pair will be offered in various frame styles and in vibrant colors to differentiate them from existing options like the Meta Ray-Bans.

This delay means that if Samsung is able to get its first attempt out the door this year, and potentially the next pair by mid-2027, it will have two smart glasses on the market by the time Apple comes out with its first one.