Apple to Begin Mass Production of AirPods With Cameras by 2026

Apple is said to be developing a new pair of AirPods, expected to be built “with camera modules.” According to recent reports, the new buds will enter mass production by 2026.

Word comes by way of reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, first reported on by 9to5Mac. Kuo claims that Apple is working to launch a pair of AirPods that utilize an infrared camera. It’s believed that the technology will work similarly to the Face ID module on iPhone and iPad.

The new AirPods are being designed as a way to fully integrate AirPods with Vision Pro as well as future Apple Vision headsets. Kuo goes on to state that the AirPods will be used to “enhance the user experience of spatial audio and strengthen the spatial computing ecosystem.” As an example, a user may be able to turn their head while wearing the AirPods and Vision Pro and have the audio reflect that positioning.

Kuo’s report goes on to claim that the IR camera may be able to detect environmental image changes that could enable in-air gesture control. This may enhance the ways users interact with the device.

It’s believed that long-time Apple supplier Foxconn has been tapped as the “new product introduction” supplier for the IR camera. The company reportedly has an annual capacity plan of 18 to 20 million units, which could be roughly 10 million pairs of AirPods.

Kuo’s claims are largely corroborated by an earlier report from Bloomberg. In it, it was claimed that Apple is developing a new pair of AirPods equipped with cameras for scanning a user’s surroundings. This is said to follow a new version of AirPods Pro, believed to be launching in 2025.