As generative artificial intelligence rises to prominence, major technology firms like Meta and Apple are aggressively competing in the AI hardware market, particularly in the smart wearable device segment. Meta, which has previously focused on smart glasses, is now reportedly developing a smartwatch named 'Malibu 2', aimed for release this year. This device is expected to incorporate health tracking features along with AI capabilities, reviving a project that was shelved five years ago due to budget cuts. The surge in interest for AI-integrated wearable technology has prompted Meta to restart this initiative, capitalizing on their successful partnership with Ray-Ban, through which they sold over seven million smart glasses last year.

Meanwhile, Apple, which has dominated the smartwatch market with its Apple Watch, is expanding into the smart glasses arena. According to Bloomberg, the company is developing AI-equipped smart glasses, along with a pendant and AirPods, targeting users who hesitate to wear glasses. The smart glasses, codenamed 'N50', are expected to feature a microphone, speaker, and embedded Apple's AI assistant, Siri, and are set for production to begin this December for release next year. Apple faces critiques regarding its AI capabilities, as enhancements in functionality are essential to maintain the lock-in effect that draws customers into its ecosystem.