Apple Patent Application Describes Dual-Axis Hinge Mechanism That Could Arrive on Apple’s Smartglasses

Apple's supposed smart glasses could be several years away, but it seems that the company is working on hardware that could be included in its next-generation wearables. According to a patent application published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Apple has designed a hinge mechanism that could be part of the company's augmented reality (AR) glasses. Earlier this year, Apple launched the Vision Pro in the US as its first wearable space computer, and future models are expected to resemble regular glasses.

Apple's patent application for the dual axis hinge mechanism

In the patent application published by the US Patent Office last week, Apple explains the use of a dual axis hinge in a pair of glasses. The document describes the capability of the hinge used to open the arm in three states: open (nominal), folded, and hyperextended.

Figures representing the dual-axis hinge of smart glasses
Photo credit: US Patent Office/Apple

Apple says a hinge with “multiple axes of rotation of different parts” would allow the arm of the AR glasses to move between different stable positions. The hinge design would also allow the smart glasses to “apply a clamping force to a wide range of heads.”

Another advantage of using the dual axis hinge mechanism is the ability to equip the hinge with a cable that would connect components to the arm and frame of the smart glasses. The redesigned hinge will also allow components to remain secure, according to the company's patent document.

Apple references “Glasses” in patent application

The patent document contains multiple references to “glasses,” suggesting the company is developing the technology to eventually release its own pair of smart glasses. Previous reports have tried to predict the switch from a mixed reality headset (the Apple Vision Pro) to something more streamlined.

Last month, it was reported that the iPhone maker plans to release a foldable iPhone and AR glasses in 2026 and 2027, respectively. Apple is not the only company working on smart glasses. Asus, Meta, Samsung and Lenovo are some of the firm's rivals that are also working on similar technology.