Apple, Google and Meta race AI wearables amid privacy backlash

Apple, Google and Meta are all introducing new AI-powered wearable devices and personal assistants, hoping to capture a growing market. The push comes as the AI wearables category faces significant headwinds, including privacy concerns, failed product launches, and damage to the reputation of the wearables space itself.

Wearable device makers have struggled with user trust around data collection and surveillance. Some high-profile wearable products have been pulled or delayed, raising questions about whether consumers are ready to embrace always-on AI devices they wear.