Apple Plans 2026 AI Glasses After Ultra-Thin Phone Demand Falters

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Samsung’s 5.8-millimeter Galaxy S25 Edge saw lower sales than other lineups, and Apple’s slimmer iPhone Air also underperformed compared to the iPhone 17 Pro. Apple is developing AI smart devices, including AI glasses slated for a 2026 launch, to tap growth beyond its 8% Wearables, Home and Accessories revenue.

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Underperformance

Samsung’s ultra-thin 5.8-millimeter Galaxy S25 Edge generated relatively lower sales than other Galaxy models due to trade-offs in battery endurance, prompting management to reconsider a successor rather than commit to a follow-up.

2. Apple’s iPhone Air Sales Trends

Apple’s iPhone Air, introduced as its slimmest handset, has similarly seen weaker demand compared to premium variants like the iPhone 17 Pro, highlighting challenges for ultra-thin form factors in mass markets.

3. Apple AI Device Roadmap

Apple is advancing new AI smart devices, including AI glasses targeted for a 2026 launch, leveraging its Wearables, Home and Accessories segment—which accounts for about 8% of revenue—to drive the next growth wave.

Sources

FF