Apple is reportedly working on a next-generation AirPods model with integrated cameras, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. While AirPods Pro 3, expected later this year, won’t feature this technology, Apple is actively developing camera-equipped AirPods for future releases.
Why Put Cameras in AirPods?
Apple’s goal with camera-equipped AirPods is to enhance spatial awareness and integrate AI-driven features into its ecosystem. This could bring Visual Intelligence—a feature introduced with the iPhone 16’s Camera Control button—to AirPods, allowing users to interact with their environment in new and intuitive ways.
“Apple is working on a new version of the AirPods Pro that uses external cameras and artificial intelligence to understand the outside world and provide information to the user. This would essentially be the smart glasses path — but without actual glasses.” – Mark Gurman
This means you could potentially ask Siri about your surroundings—without ever taking out your iPhone.
Boosting Spatial Audio and Apple Vision Pro Integration
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that these cameras could also enhance the spatial audio experience, particularly when used with Vision Pro and future Apple headsets.
For example, AirPods could detect head movements and dynamically adjust audio to match where you’re looking. This would create a more immersive audio experience for movies, games, and spatial computing applications. Kuo also speculates that cameras in AirPods might enable in-air gesture controls, though details remain unclear.
When Will Camera-Equipped AirPods Launch?
Don’t expect to see this tech anytime soon. According to Gurman, Apple won’t debut these futuristic AirPods before 2027, likely aligning them with the AirPods Pro 4 and future AI-driven products.
“Into 2027, the team is considering launching smart glasses on par with the Meta Ray-Bans, as well as AirPods with cameras.”
This push could be part of Apple’s broader strategy to leverage its Vision Pro technology, turning everyday accessories like AirPods into AI-powered smart devices.