Apple Watch Rumored for Major Camera Upgrade to Enhance AI Capabilities
Apple’s smartwatch may be poised for a significant overhaul, according to recent speculation from respected tech analyst Mark Gurman. The technology giant is reportedly developing a revamped wearable device that could incorporate a notable feature designed to distinguish it from competitors like the Galaxy Watch.
Integrating a Camera for Advanced Features
Industry sources suggest Apple is exploring the integration of a camera into the Apple Watch for the first time. This addition is not intended for conventional photography, such as selfies, but rather to enable advanced artificial intelligence functionalities, specifically visual intelligence.
Visual Intelligence to Augment User Experience
The potential camera, possibly positioned adjacent to the Digital Crown, would enable the device to perceive its surroundings. This visual input could then be utilized to furnish users with pertinent information about their location and nearby points of interest through visual intelligence technology.
This technology is already implemented in the latest iPhone 16 models, allowing users to obtain comprehensive search results by simply pointing their camera at objects, locations, or businesses, eliminating the need for manual text input.
Apple’s website elaborates on this feature for the iPhone 16: “On all iPhone 16 models, you can use visual intelligence to quickly learn more about the places and objects around you. With supported iPhone 16 models, just click and hold the Camera Control to do things like look up details about a restaurant or business; have text translated, summarised, or read aloud; identify plants and animals; and more.”
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Potential Release Timeline and Market Context
The implementation and functionality of this technology on the Apple Watch remain to be seen. Gurman anticipates this upgrade could be introduced around 2027.
This potential update is particularly significant for Apple as recent data from Counterpoint Research indicates a contraction in the smartwatch market, with a 7% decrease in purchases during 2024.
Furthermore, Apple Watch shipments reportedly experienced a 19% decline during the same period, attributed to limited innovation and design modifications.
Industry Analyst Perspective
Anshika Jain, Senior Research Analyst at Counterpoint, noted, “The biggest driver of the decline was North America, where the absence of the Ultra 3 and minimal feature upgrades in the S10 lineup led consumers to hold back purchases.”
Conversely, manufacturers like Xiaomi and Samsung have witnessed sales growth, underscoring the need for Apple to maintain competitiveness within the market.
The integration of a camera and associated visual intelligence features could be a strategic move by Apple to revitalize sales. However, this upgrade is not expected in the immediate future.