Apple Watch, with cameras and Visual Intelligence, expected by 2027
What's the story
Apple is said to be planning to add cameras into its future Apple Watch models.
The move, as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports, is aimed at making these devices more functional and closer to artificial intelligence (AI) wearables.
The tech giant is looking to add cameras into both its standard Series watches and Ultra models. These innovative devices are expected to launch in 2027.
AI integration
Apple Watch could support AI features
The integration of cameras into Apple Watch is likely to enable AI features like Visual Intelligence. This technology could give real-time information about whatever you point the camera at.
For example, it could add details from an event flyer to your calendar or look up information about a restaurant.
Gurman earlier revealed Apple is developing AirPods with a built-in camera for similar purposes, expected to launch around the same time as these watches.
Design variations
Camera placement could vary among different models
The placement of the camera on the Apple Watch could differ from one model to another.
The standard Series watches, as Gurman says, could have a camera integrated into their display.
Meanwhile, the Ultra model's camera would be placed on its side, adjacent to the digital crown and button.
This design difference might offer flexibility in usage.
AI development
Apple's Visual Intelligence feature debuted on iPhone 16
The Visual Intelligence feature that these devices will use was first seen on the iPhone 16.
It integrates with the phone's camera to provide relevant information depending on what the user points it at.
As of now, the feature uses AI models from other companies. But, Gurman says, Apple plans to create its own in-house models by 2027 when it plans to launch these new Apple Watches and AirPods.