Apple is working on a new generation of AirPods that integrate cameras to feed visual data to Siri. According to the latest rumors, these earbuds will be Apple's first AI wearable and are expected to hit the market in late 2027, alongside the 20th anniversary iPhone and a second-generation foldable iPhone.
Design with infrared cameras in the stem
The design of the camera-equipped AirPods will be very similar to the current AirPods Pro 3, with the exception of the stem, where small infrared cameras similar to those used for Face ID will be embedded. Apple also plans to include an LED that lights up when visual data is sent to the cloud, so that people nearby know the cameras are in use. Size, fit, and charging case will remain largely the same.
Features based on computer vision and Siri
The cameras will send data about the wearer's surroundings to Siri, enabling the assistant to answer questions about objects, provide more precise walking directions, trigger contextual reminders, and support 3D mapping. The iPhone already has Visual Intelligence, which uses AI to identify plants, animals, landmarks, and more. With these AirPods, visual data can be supplied to Visual Intelligence without opening the Camera app. However, users will not be able to capture photos or videos with the built-in cameras.
Sponsored Protocol
H3 chip for lower latency and better audio
Apple is developing an upgraded H3 chip, which could debut on these earbuds. The new chip promises improvements in latency and audio quality, making the user experience even smoother.
Name and pricing: AirPods Pro 4 or AirPods Ultra
Initially, rumors suggested the camera AirPods would not be a full new model, but launch timing has changed. It is now likely they will be part of the AirPods Pro line, though naming remains unsettled: possibilities include AirPods Pro 4 or AirPods Ultra. With the addition of cameras, the price could exceed the current $249 of the AirPods Pro 3.
Sponsored Protocol
Compatibility with iPhone and Apple Intelligence
Since the AirPods will feed data to Siri, an iPhone compatible with Apple Intelligence is required, namely the iPhone 15 Pro and later. Testing is underway with iOS 28, an update already in development by Apple.
For broader context on AI evolution at Apple, you can read the article on Anthropic vs the US government. Additionally, to understand AI's impact on creative industries, check out the piece on Google invests $75 million in A24. For more technical details, refer to the Wikipedia page for Apple.
