Apple is said to be developing a new AirPods model with a built-in infrared camera.
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is said to be developing a new AirPods model with an integrated infrared camera, expected to mass produce in 2026. The combination of this improved AirPods with Vision Pro glasses can brings a more vivid virtual space experience to users.
This system will use an IR receiver similar to the one currently used on the iPhone's Face ID receiver. On his personal blog, Ming-Chi Kuo wrote that IR cameras will be provided by Foxconn with plans to produce 18 to 20 million units per year, enough to supply 10 million pairs of AirPods.
The new AirPods will also be used to power more immersive spatial audio experiences and "enhance the spatial computing ecosystem" on the Vision Pro and other headsets that Apple may offer in the future.
"For example, when a user is watching a video with the Vision Pro and wearing this new AirPods model, if the user turns their head to look in a particular direction, the sound source in that direction can be emphasized to increase the Enhance spatial sound experience".
Since IR cameras can "detect environmental visual changes", gestures can be used to enhance interaction between the user and the device. Kuo also noted that Apple has applied for a patent in this area.
Kuo stated, "Apple's planning for hardware, software and services focused on enhancing the competitiveness of the ecosystem and spatial computing is no exception. As the terms of commercialization for spatial computing to thrive in the future and Apple, which is leading in this field, is expected to create new and strong growth drivers."
In addition, AirPods with built-in cameras can also offer other benefits such as "in-air" control through an infrared module that works similarly to the FaceID facial recognition feature. Previously, Bloomberg expert Mark Gurman also mentioned that Apple is considering the idea of AirPods with integrated cameras.
For users who don't want to spend thousands of dollars on Vision Pro glasses, the infrared camera on AirPods still brings many practical benefits. Sources from the supply chain said that Apple plans to mass produce this headset model in 2026.