Apple is getting closer to launching new AirPods Pro with built-in cameras, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. A new report says the near‑final prototypes have entered internal testing, suggesting they might reach the market relatively soon.
The camera-equipped AirPods are said to have low-resolution visual sensors embedded in the stems. Apple’s intent is to give Siri and its upcoming “Apple Intelligence” tools a better understanding of a user’s surroundings. Low‑resolution video from each earbud could feed on‑device or cloud‑based processing, which may help Siri answer questions about what is in front of the wearer, read signs, or assist with navigation and accessibility use cases, as reported by MacRumors.
While we lack details on the AirPods cameras’ field of view, the rumor that they’re low-resolution is comforting, as camera-equipped smart glasses are now being used to extort individuals who are unwittingly recorded in public.
Gurman reports that the new AirPods will look similar to AirPods Pro, with slightly longer stems to accommodate the cameras and other components. Apple could bring the new AirPods to market once its next wave of AI software for iPhone, iPad, and Mac is ready. But still, pricing and the accessory’s exact launch window remain unknown, and Apple has not publicly commented on the project.
