TL;DR
A Smart Analytics Global report forecasts a sharp jump in AI smart glasses sales, projecting 6 million units in 2025 rising to 20 million in 2026 and longer‑term growth to 75 million by 2030. SAG identifies Apple’s anticipated entry — around 2027 — as a potential inflection point thanks to industrial design, fashion appeal, and ecosystem integration.
What happened
Research firm Smart Analytics Global (SAG) released a forecast calling 2026 a breakout year for AI smart glasses, with global shipments rising from an estimated 6 million units in 2025 to about 20 million in 2026. The report argues that the sector’s momentum could accelerate further once Apple introduces its own glasses, expected around 2027. SAG points to three areas where Apple could move the needle: refined industrial design, stronger fashion credentials, and tight integration with Apple’s existing hardware and services. The report also notes that Apple’s hardware design organization has experienced turnover since the Apple Watch era, but that the company’s design reputation remains intact. Looking further ahead, SAG projects annual smart‑glasses sales of roughly 75 million by 2030 and predicts heads‑up display (HUD) models will lead unit sales from 2028 onward. The firm likewise expects smart glasses to coexist with smartphones rather than replace them.
Why it matters
- A major vendor like Apple entering the market could speed mainstream adoption beyond current niche demand.
- Design and fashion influence may be as important as technical capabilities for consumer uptake.
- Ecosystem integration could make smart glasses more compelling if they work seamlessly with existing devices and services.
- Forecasted rapid volume growth would reshape supply chains and developer interest in wearable AR/AI experiences.
Key facts
- SAG forecasts shipments to rise from about 6 million units in 2025 to 20 million in 2026.
- Apple’s market entry is expected by SAG to occur around 2027.
- SAG highlights three Apple strengths: industrial design, fashion appeal, and ecosystem integration.
- The report compares these strengths to those that helped the Apple Watch succeed.
- Despite reported turnover in Apple’s industrial design team since the Watch launch, the company’s hardware design reputation is described as intact.
- SAG projects annual smart‑glasses sales could reach 75 million units by 2030.
- Heads‑up display (HUD) models are predicted to become the best sellers starting in 2028.
- SAG expects smart glasses to coexist with smartphones rather than replace them.
What to watch next
- Whether Apple launches its glasses near the 2027 timeframe SAG cites and how the product is positioned.
- Market adoption and shipment figures for 2026, which SAG identifies as a potential breakout year.
- Uptick in HUD‑style models and their market share beginning in 2028.
Quick glossary
- AI smart glasses: Wearable eyewear that integrates sensors, displays, and artificial intelligence to provide contextual information or augmented reality experiences.
- HUD (heads‑up display): A transparent display that presents data in the user's field of view without requiring them to look away from their usual viewpoints.
- Industrial design: The professional practice of designing products with attention to functionality, form, ergonomics, and user experience.
- Ecosystem integration: How well a product works with a company's other hardware, software, and services to create a seamless user experience.
- Mainstream adoption: Widespread consumer acceptance and regular use of a product beyond early adopters and niche markets.
Reader FAQ
When does SAG expect Apple to enter the smart glasses market?
SAG projects Apple’s entry around 2027.
How many smart glasses does SAG forecast for 2026?
The report projects about 20 million units in 2026, up from roughly 6 million in 2025.
Will smart glasses replace smartphones?
SAG expects glasses to coexist with smartphones rather than replace them.
What specific features will Apple Glasses include?
not confirmed in the source
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Sources
- Apple Glasses predicted to drive major product growth with three strengths
- How Smart Glasses From Apple Could Reshape The Market
- Samsung's Galaxy XR headset to take on Apple with help …
- Apple Shelves Cheaper Vision Pro, Pivots to Smart Glasses
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