Amid the growing excitement in the AI hardware market, tech giant Apple is secretly developing a new AI wearable device. According to a recent report by The Information, this highly anticipated product aims to provide powerful sensing capabilities through a compact form factor, further expanding Apple's AI ecosystem.

WWDC23, Apple

Exquisite Craftsmanship: A Miniature "Brain" Like an AirTag

According to internal sources, Apple's AI wearable device is designed as a round, flat disc that can be worn on clothing, with an exterior made of high-quality aluminum and glass. Its size is expected to be similar to an AirTag, with only a slight increase in thickness.

Despite its compact size, its hardware configuration is quite complete:

  • Imaging System: Equipped with dual cameras (standard lens + wide-angle lens), supporting photography and video recording.

  • Interaction Interface: Integrated with three microphones, a speaker, and a physical button on the back.

  • Power Supply Design: Uses a charging strip design similar to Fitbit.

Racing for 2027: The AI Hardware Competition Among Giants

Apple's move is seen as a direct response to OpenAI's hardware strategy. Previously, Chris Lehane, OpenAI's Chief Global Affairs Officer, revealed at the World Economic Forum that the company's first AI hardware (rumored to be a pair of earbuds) is likely to be launched later this year.

Facing competition, Apple is accelerating its R&D process. Industry predictions suggest that this Apple AI pin could be officially released in 2027, with an initial sales target of 20 million units, showing Apple's ambition in this market.

Market Challenges: The Lessons from Humane AI

However, the commercial prospects of AI wearable devices are not without challenges. Previously, the startup company Humane AI, founded by two former Apple employees, launched an AI pin with extremely similar features, but due to a lackluster market response, the company ceased operations and was sold to HP just two years after the product launch.

Do consumers really need AI hardware independent of their phones? This remains a common challenge for Apple and OpenAI. Currently, TechCrunch has contacted Apple regarding this project, but no official response has been received yet.