According to the renowned journalist Mark Gurman, the company continues to explore the idea of adding Image sensors In its upcoming Airpods models, with the aim of enhancing artificial intelligence and improving interaction with other Apple ecosystem devices.
Airpods with cameras in 2026
Although it seems an unrealistic idea today and that it would be more aimed at the future, the reality is that technology is already underway and its arrival in the market could occur in 2026 or 2027.
The Ming-Chi Kuo analyst, specialized in Apple's supply chain, ensures that these new airpods will be equipped with infrared cameras similar to those used by the iPhone for FACE ID. However, instead of scanning faces, these cameras would be designed to interpret the user's environment and offer more immersive experiences, especially in combination with other devices, such as Apple Vision Pro.
One of the main applications of these cameras would be to improve space audio. Currently, the Airpods Pro already have head tracking To adjust the sound based on the user's movement, but with infrared cameras this capacity would be taken to another level. If a user is watching a movie in the pro vision and turns his head in one direction, the sound could automatically adjust to emphasize the audio source from that point.
Another possibility that opens this technology is control by gestures with handswithout touching the headphones. The cameras could detect the movement of the user's hands, allowing to interact with the airpods without the need to touch them. Thus, you could change songs with a simple gesture or upload the volume with a movement of the hand, something that Google has already tried with its soli technology.
Cameras in the airpods: is it worth it?
However, the key question is: do we really need cameras in the Airpods? For many users, the arrival of this technology could be unnecessary or even worrying from the point of view of privacy. Carrying headphones with cameras could generate doubts about data safety and the possibility that these Record images without consent. Apple, who has always put privacy as a fundamental pillar of its strategy, would have to ensure that these cameras are only activated at specific times and that the data is processed locally on the device without being sent to the cloud.
Another aspect to consider is the Impact on autonomy. The integration of cameras into a device as small as the AirPods is an important challenge in terms of energy consumption. While infrared cameras are usually more efficient than conventional ones, adding additional sensors could reduce battery life. Apple would have to optimize hardware and software to prevent autonomy from being significantly affected.
As for the design, it is likely that the airpods with cameras do not change their appearance too much. It is possible that the infrared sensors are hidden in the housing or in the upper part of the headphones, similar to how they are integrated in the iPhone for the FACE ID.
If the production calendar is maintained as planned, these new AirPods could be launched in 2026 or 2027, coinciding with the evolution of Apple Vision Pro and the expansion of artificial intelligence capabilities in the company's products.
