Apple Could Bring AirPods With Built-In Camera By 2026: What Will It Offer?

Apple is reportedly developing new AirPod models that will feature integrated cameras, according to a report by industry analyst Ming Chi-Kuo. The post further indicates that Apple plans to commence mass production of these next-generation camera-equipped AirPods starting in 2026.

The upcoming AirPods will reportedly include an Infrared Radiation (IR) camera, similar to the technology used in the Face ID module on iPhone and iPad. This addition aims to enhance the user experience while watching videos, offering a more immersive spatial audio experience.Apart from this, the report also suggests that the next-gen AirPods camera hardware is said to be capable of detecting environmental changes, which could enable air movements, allowing users to manage the AirPods using air gestures, without physically touching them.

As per Kuo, the Taiwan-based company Foxconn has manufactured Apple’s IR cameras and the company is aiming to produce 18-20 million units, which results in approximately 10 million AirPods. However, these are just rough estimates and the final output will be determined by market conditions.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, earlier in February, reported that Apple is currently working on AirPods with cameras. With new camera hardware, the tech giant is expected to consider more than just making them compatible with Vision Pro.

Meanwhile, recently at the WWDC 2024 event, the tech giant revealed significant updates for their AirPods Pro models. These updates aim to improve Siri interactions, enhance voice isolation and introduce personalised spatial audio for gamers.

Siri Interactions: This feature enables users to interact with Siri privately by using simple head gestures like nodding yes or shaking no.

Voice Isolation: This update has been introduced by the company to give the customers the best calling experience regardless of the environmental conditions.

Personalised Spatial Audio: This update is especially for gamers, to give them an immersive audio experience while gaming.

It was also reported that Apple is planning to launch an affordable version of AirPods later this year, called the AirPods Lite which could be priced as low as USD 99 (approx. INR 8,268). Currently in India, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) cost Rs 24,900. While the AirPods 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen are priced at Rs 12,900 and Rs 19,900 respectively.