Apple’s Future Smartwatches May Include Cameras for AI Features
Apple’s Plans for AI-Enabled Smartwatches
According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple may be planning to add cameras to their smartwatches, a feature that could enable AI-enabled ways to interact with the real world. This feature could potentially be similar to the Apple Intelligence features enabled by visual intelligence on the iPhone 16.
Potential AI Features on Apple Watch
If the AI features on the Apple Watch are intended to be similar to those debuted on the iPhone 16, they could include the following capabilities:
- Camera-Based Features: Summarize and copy text from images captured by the camera, including translating between languages.
- Automatic Contacts: Automatically open a prompt to add email addresses or phone numbers to contacts if you see them in the real world.
- Search: Search Google for where to buy an item directly from a photo of that item.
- Explainable Diagrams: Ask ChatGPT to explain unfamiliar diagrams or notes.
Apple Watch Camera Placement
Gurman reported that the cameras would be placed inside the area of the display on the standard watch and next to the digital crown and button on the side of the Apple Watch Ultra.
AirPods with Cameras?
Gurman also predicted that Apple is exploring the idea of adding a camera to AirPods.
Apple’s AI Division Shaken Up
Apple has historically taken a cautious approach to AI adoption. We had predicted this measured approach would allow the company to introduce generative AI in a way that differentiates its ecosystem. However, the rollout has been gradual, largely consisting of incorporating widely established generative AI tools into its devices.
Siri Delayed until 2026
An upgraded version of Siri – expected to understand natural language more intuitively – has reportedly been delayed until 2026.
Apple’s AI Division Leadership Change
Behind the scenes, Apple removed John Giannandrea as head of the AI division and appointed Vision Pro executive Mike Rockwell to lead the team.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Apple’s plans for their future smartwatches may include cameras to enable AI features like translating signs between languages. This feature could potentially be similar to the Apple Intelligence features enabled by visual intelligence on the iPhone 16. The company is also exploring the idea of adding a camera to AirPods. However, Apple’s AI division has undergone a leadership change, and the rollout of generative AI has been gradual.
FAQs
Q: What are the potential AI features on Apple Watch?
A: The potential AI features on Apple Watch could include summarizing and copying text from images, translating between languages, automatically opening prompts to add contacts, searching for items, and explaining diagrams.
Q: Where would the cameras be placed on the Apple Watch?
A: The cameras would be placed inside the area of the display on the standard watch and next to the digital crown and button on the side of the Apple Watch Ultra.
Q: Is Apple also adding cameras to AirPods?
A: Yes, according to Gurman, Apple is exploring the idea of adding a camera to AirPods.
Q: What is the status of Siri’s upgrade?
A: The upgraded version of Siri, expected to understand natural language more intuitively, has been delayed until 2026.
Q: What changes have taken place in Apple’s AI division?
A: John Giannandrea was removed as head of the AI division, and Mike Rockwell was appointed to lead the team.
