Apple Watch is one of the most beloved smartwatches, and it was about to get the biggest upgrade possible. Apple was working on a smartwatch with cameras, but now it looks like that plan has been dropped. According to Bloomberg, Apple has scrapped plans to put a camera on the Apple Watch and is shifting its focus to smart glasses.

Rumours of Apple testing cameras on the main Apple Watch and Watch Ultra models were making rounds all over the internet. Apple’s goal was to boost AI features and reportedly release them around 2027. But according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, people familiar with the project have confirmed it’s been shelved.

On the other hand, Apple is still pushing forward with a pair of AirPods that could feature a camera. It’s not clear yet if the camera would sit on the earbuds themselves or be part of the charging case. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says this model, likely the AirPods Pro 3, isn’t expected until 2026.

Why Is Apple Going All In on Smart Glasses?

The report also reveals more details about Apple’s long-rumored smart glasses. Earlier, it was believed that the glasses wouldn’t launch until 2027 or later. But with the recent launch of Android XR at the Google I/O event, Bloomberg now says Apple is speeding up production, aiming for a reveal as soon as 2026. The first model will likely be a simpler pair of glasses without augmented reality (AR) features, potentially rivaling the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. These are also expected to come with cameras and microphones for hands-free interaction with Apple’s AI.

Meanwhile, OpenAI and Apple’s former Chief Design Officer Jony Ive have announced plans to develop future AI-powered products as well. It looks like every company has realized the significance of AI and is now working toward integrating AI products into our day to day lives, making AI more accessible and easier to use.