Apple Aims to Transform Watches Into Wearable AI Devices

Apple is reportedly planning to enhance its Apple Watch by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) features, despite the struggles of wearable AI devices to capture consumer interest. The company is looking into adding cameras to the Apple Watch, which could enable advanced "visual intelligence" capabilities that are currently more familiar on the latest iPhone models.

According to industry sources, Apple is working on incorporating camera technology in both the Apple Watch Series and Ultra models. The Series is expected to feature a camera embedded within its display, while the Ultra model is likely to have a camera mounted on the side. This new functionality would allow the watch to utilize Apple’s visual intelligence capabilities, which include object recognition and text translation from images.

One of the most promising aspects of AI integration is real-time translation, a feature that could provide significant practical value to users. Unlike previous attempts at wearable AI devices that lacked practical use, the Apple Watch has established its utility as a timekeeping device—potentially making it an ideal platform to introduce valuable AI features. Furthermore, this new functionality would bolster Apple’s ability to collect data, which is essential for refining its AI systems. Comparatively, Meta's collaboration with Ray-Ban to create smart glasses has seen some success, indicating a viable market for AI-integrated wearables.

However, Apple faces challenges with its AI features, having already postponed the rollout of an upgraded version of Siri due to functionality issues. Consumer feedback on Apple’s AI offerings has also been lukewarm, with a survey indicating that 73% of iPhone users feel the AI features add minimal value to their experience.

In addition to AI challenges, Apple is encountering difficulties in enhancing the Apple Watch itself. The company has yet to successfully incorporate the long-awaited blood-pressure tracking feature. There are also reports that Apple might abandon plans for a more affordable plastic version of the Apple Watch SE, which was intended to broaden its market appeal.

Integrating a camera into the Apple Watch could potentially address some of these challenges, though it may also complicate a device that is most appreciated for its straightforward timekeeping abilities.

Apple, AI, Wearable