Apple’s Ambitious Move to Integrate AI into the Apple Watch
Despite the general failure of wearable AI devices to capture consumer interest, Apple seems determined to take another shot. The company plans to transform the Apple Watch into an AI-powered wearable, combining advanced functionality with its already successful smartwatch platform. According to Bloomberg, Apple is working on a version of its smartwatch that will feature cameras to enhance its “visual intelligence” tools, which are currently available only on the latest iPhone models.
Apple Watch Series and Ultra Models to Feature Cameras
Apple is aiming to incorporate these cameras into both the Series and Ultra models of the Apple Watch. The Series model is expected to have a camera integrated into the display, while the Ultra will feature the camera on the side of the watch. This addition would allow the Apple Watch to leverage Apple’s visual intelligence capabilities, which include identifying objects or translating text from images.
Real-Time Translation and Practical AI Features
One of the most appealing aspects of wearable AI is real-time translation—an AI feature with tangible, practical applications. Unlike competitors like the Humane Ai Pin, which failed to establish a clear purpose, the Apple Watch already serves a practical function. By integrating AI features into a device with real utility, Apple could have a more compelling offering. Additionally, the integration of these tools would enable Apple to collect more data, helping to train its AI systems.
Challenges and Potential Success
Meta’s success with smartglasses, having sold over one million pairs in partnership with Ray-Ban, shows that there is potential for AI wearables when paired with practical use cases. However, Apple has faced challenges in the AI space. The company recently delayed the rollout of an upgraded Siri due to technical issues, and consumers have been largely unimpressed with Apple’s AI tools. A survey found that 73% of iPhone users felt the AI features offered little to no value.
Struggles with Expanding Apple Watch Functionality
Apple has also had difficulty expanding the Apple Watch’s capabilities. Although the company has promised a blood pressure tracking feature for some time, it has not been able to deliver. In addition, reports suggest that Apple may soon discontinue a plastic version of the Apple Watch SE that was intended to make the device more affordable.
Will a Camera Solve Apple’s Challenges?
The introduction of a camera to the Apple Watch may help Apple overcome some of these hurdles, or it could add further complications to a device that is at its best when it simply tells time. Only time will tell if Apple’s ambitious AI smartwatch plans will succeed or become another challenge in their ongoing quest to perfect wearable technology.
