Apple is exploring the integration of cameras and “visual intelligence” into its smartwatches, despite previous challenges with wearable AI devices. While many such devices have struggled to gain consumer acceptance, Apple plans to enhance the Apple Watch with AI capabilities. According to Bloomberg, the company is developing a version of the smartwatch equipped with cameras to expand its visual intelligence features, which are currently only available on the latest iPhone models.
Bloomberg reports that Apple is working to fit lenses into both the Series and Ultra models of the Apple Watch. The Series model is expected to have a camera embedded in its display, while the Ultra model will feature a side camera. This added functionality would allow the watch to utilize the company’s visual intelligence tools, enabling features like object recognition and real-time text translation.
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Real-time translation is seen as a highly practical AI feature, and the Apple Watch’s primary function as a timekeeping device could make it an effective platform for AI integration. Moreover, this development could help Apple gather more data to improve its systems. Meta’s success with smartglasses through its partnership with Ray-Ban, which sold over one million pairs, suggests a viable market for AI wearables when they serve multiple purposes.
However, Apple has faced difficulties in implementing AI features. The rollout of an upgraded Siri has been delayed due to technical issues, and consumer feedback has been largely negative regarding Apple’s AI tools, with a recent survey showing that 73% of iPhone users believe these features add little value.
Additionally, Apple has struggled to enhance the Apple Watch’s functionality, having failed to deliver a long-promised blood-pressure tracking feature. The company is also reportedly moving away from a planned plastic version of the Apple Watch SE, intended to reduce costs.
Incorporating a camera into the Apple Watch may help Apple address some of these challenges, but it could also complicate a device that excels at its core function of telling time.
SOURCE: GIZMODO
