Apple may launch a new AirPods model with an infrared camera in 2026, enhancing the spatial audio experience.
According to Bloomberg expert Mark Gurman, Apple is continuing to research a future model of AirPods with a camera. In this week's Power On newsletter, Gurman briefly mentioned that AirPods could be equipped with a small camera, but did not explain clearly what the camera's function would be.
According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, in a blog post in June 2024, Apple is expected to mass produce new AirPods with an infrared camera in 2026. He said the infrared camera will be similar to the Face ID receiver on the iPhone.
Kuo believes that the new AirPods will provide an enhanced spatial audio experience when paired with the Apple Vision Pro headphones. Specifically, when users watch videos with Vision Pro and wear the new AirPods, if they turn their heads in a certain direction, the sound from the source will be adjusted to enhance the spatial audio experience.
In addition, the infrared camera is also capable of supporting "air gesture control", allowing users to interact with the device through hand movements. If the 2026 mass production plan is on schedule, the new AirPods with an infrared camera will likely launch in 2026 or 2027.