Apple is planning to add cameras to Apple Watch models by 2027, according to recent reports. The standard model will feature a display-embedded camera while the Ultra version will have one near the digital crown. These cameras won’t be for video calls but will focus on AI-powered object recognition, scanning items, and capturing spontaneous moments. The technology faces challenges including miniaturization, power consumption, and privacy concerns. This innovation could transform how we interact with our wearable devices.
Innovation continues to tick forward at Apple as the tech giant explores adding cameras to future Apple Watch models. According to internal plans, Apple is working on camera integration that could debut by 2027. The standard Apple Watch would feature a camera embedded within the display, while the Ultra model would position a camera on the side near the digital crown and button.
This move isn’t about enabling FaceTime calls on your wrist. Instead, it’s part of Apple’s broader push into AI and Visual Intelligence. The company aims to bring iPhone-like object and scene recognition capabilities to the Watch. This would allow users to quickly capture spontaneous moments or scan items like food, medications, and other objects.
The technology would function in a comparable manner to Google Lens, analyzing surroundings to provide contextual information. For example, the camera could identify plants, landmarks, or products. It could also potentially offer navigation assistance for visually impaired users and enable new augmented reality experiences directly from the wrist.
However, Apple faces several technical hurdles. Engineers must solve challenging problems related to miniaturizing camera components, managing power consumption, maintaining image quality, and controlling heat within the watch’s compact design.
Privacy concerns also loom large. An always-wearable camera raises questions about inadvertent recording and data protection. Apple will need to address these issues with clear recording indicators and strong security measures to protect captured media.
If successful, this addition could greatly differentiate Apple Watch from competitors. It might boost sales and create new opportunities for developers to create watch-specific camera apps. Current third-party solutions like the Wristcam already offer IP68-rated water resistance for capturing photos in wet conditions.
The concept isn’t entirely new. Apple has filed patents for watch cameras in the past, and third-party solutions like Wristcam already exist. This development represents Apple’s evolution from voice-only to visual communication on the wrist, aligning with their long-term strategy for wearable technology.
The addition of camera capability is expected to impact battery performance, potentially decreasing battery life by several hours from the current 18-hour standard for Apple Watches.
Similar to AI in healthcare, this technology could eventually provide automated analysis of health information captured through visual data, potentially detecting early signs of skin conditions or monitoring physical symptoms over time.
