Apple has plans to introduce an overhauled version of its AirPods, at least according to one analyst. While the design of the wireless earbuds is not mentioned, it is reported that these will feature camera modules, with mass production expected to happen in 2026. As for why the company would incorporate these sensors in an audio product, it likely has to do with its spatial audio push, improving its ecosystem and creating an enhanced synergy with the rest of its devices. Here are more details that you might be interested in.
New 2026 AirPods will reportedly feature an IR camera similar to the iPhone’s Face ID receiver, sensors will detect environmental changes
The cameras expected to be found in the new AirPods model for 2026 will not be the same as the sensors that we see on iPhones. Instead, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has commented on his latest Medium blog that the cameras will sport an IR blaster, with the AirPods said to work seamlessly with the Apple Vision Pro and upcoming AR headsets to enhance the spatial audio experience. Details of how Apple’s in-ear earbuds will function have been described below.
“The new AirPods is expected to be used with Vision Pro and future Apple headsets to enhance the user experience of spatial audio and strengthen the spatial computing ecosystem. For example, when a user is watching a video with Vision Pro and wearing this new AirPods, if users turn their heads to look in a specific direction, the sound source in that direction can be emphasized to enhance the spatial audio/computing experience.”
It is worth noting that Apple has already filed patents in this particular area, and the IR cameras on the AirPods will be responsible for detecting changes in the environment. With the enabling of in-air gestures, the interaction between users and devices will see improvements. As for manufacturing, Foxconn is reportedly the NPI, or new product introduction supplier for the AirPods, with an output capacity of 10 million units.
It is worth noting that actual orders will depend on demand, but it is still impressive to see that Apple is potentially bringing cameras to something that are exceptionally small in size. Hopefully, the company will not suspend development work on these and will provide its customers with a proper set of wireless earbuds.
News Source: Ming-Chi Kuo