Apple's AI, Glasses, Tariffs

Jony Ive's move to OpenAI is putting pressure on Apple to innovate, especially in AI, following design team departures. Apple is reportedly planning to launch Meta-like smart glasses by late 2026, featuring cameras, microphones, and AI, aiming for a superior build using its own AI models. Prototypes are expected by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, Apple is readying its AI strategy for WWDC, including a software development kit in iOS 19 that allows developers to integrate Apple's AI models into their apps. The company hopes this will encourage wider adoption of its AI features, with a more advanced Siri expected in iOS 20.

Adding to Apple's challenges, President Trump is threatening a 25% tariff on imported smartphones, including iPhones, pushing for US-based manufacturing. This could significantly impact Apple's profitability, though analysts suggest Apple might absorb the tariff rather than move production. Trump is also proposing a 50% tariff on EU goods, escalating trade tensions further. These external pressures coincide with Apple's internal efforts to refine its AI capabilities and expand its hardware offerings, setting the stage for a potentially transformative period for the tech giant.