Apple’s Big Bet on AI-Powered Wearables: Cameras Coming to Apple Watch?

Apple’s AI journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but that hasn’t stopped the tech giant from pushing boundaries. According to Bloomberg’s trusted insider Mark Gurman, Apple is tinkering with a game-changing idea: adding cameras to the Apple Watch. If it happens, it could bring visual intelligence—a next-gen AI feature—right to your wrist.

What’s Visual Intelligence, Anyway?

Think of it as your device’s way of “seeing” and understanding the world around you. Apple’s already rolling this out on the iPhone 16 with iOS 18.2, letting the phone analyze objects, text, and scenes in real time—similar to Google Lens. Now, imagine that power packed into an Apple Watch.

Where Would the Camera Go?

Gurman spills the details:

When it comes to camera placement, Apple seems to be taking different approaches for each model. The standard Apple Watch could keep its minimalist look by tucking the camera discreetly under the display, preserving that clean, seamless aesthetic fans love. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra—always the more adventurous sibling—might take a bolder route, positioning the sensor on the side near the crown and power button, making it easily accessible without compromising the watch’s rugged appeal.

And don’t expect this to drop tomorrow. Gurman hints at a 2027 launch, so Apple’s clearly playing the long game.

But Wait… There’s More!

This isn’t Apple’s only wearable experiment. Rumor has it they’re also testing AirPods with built-in cameras, likely packing the same visual intelligence tech. (Yes, your earbuds might soon see what you’re doing.)

Why Apple is going big on AI

Apple’s betting big on AI—not just in phones, but in devices you wear every day. A camera-equipped Watch could revolutionize:

Health tracking (scanning food, wounds, or meds)
Navigation (real-time object recognition for the visually impaired)
Security (quick QR scans or authentication)

Of course, privacy concerns will be huge. But if anyone can make AI feel seamless (and secure), it’s Apple.

Bottom line: The future of wearables is looking smarter—and more visual—than ever.

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Eric Sandler

Chief Writer at WiFi Planet

Eric Sandler is a veteran US tech writer with over 25 years of experience covering the latest advancements in the world of technology. From groundbreaking innovations to in-depth reviews, Eric has built a reputation for delivering insightful, reliable content. His work spans across a variety of tech topics, including smartphones, gadgets, AI, and more, making him a trusted voice in the industry.