In the fall we can expect the AirPods Pro 3rd generation and they promise to contain the necessary innovations, including health functions. In addition, Apple is looking to add cameras to the AirPods, but not yet this year.
With the help of these cameras, the AirPods can scan the environment so that Apple Intelligence can be used in combination with AirPods. The cameras could also recognize hand gestures so that you can operate the wireless ears. Future music for the time being, but the interest is there.
AirPods with cameras
The reliable Mark Gurman van Bloomberg share That Apple has plans to add cameras to the AirPods. But why would you want to put cameras in such a small device? According to Bloomberg, Apple has good reasons for this: Apple Intelligence and ease of use.
AirPods with Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 16th, iPhone 16 (Plus), iPhone 15 Pro (Max) and newer have support for Visual Intelligence. With the help of the iPhone camera you can scan your environment to request information. Apple would have plans to integrate this function into the AirPods by adding cameras to the ears.
You can then ask Siri to explain things in your area. Handy if you know which tree you are looking at, what kind of dog is next to you, placing data on a flyer in your agenda, etc. By putting cameras in the AirPods this data can be processed immediately without having to remove your iPhone from your pocket or bag.
Hand gestures for AirPods
Ming-Chi Kuo is another reliable analyst who regularly shares details about unpaid Apple products. According to Kuo If Apple would also like to use the cameras to be able to register hand gestures. This allows the AirPods to work even better with other Apple products and you can serve music directly with your hands. Think of the Vision Pro where you can operate the spatial computer using hand movements.
Availability AirPods with cameras
Apple’s AirPods Pro with camera is not expected quickly. First the AirPods Pro 3rd generation will appear later this year. The AirPods with camera are only expected at the end of 2027 at the earliest. This new function is most likely added to the AirPods Pro 4th generation.