Apple will release AirPods with infrared cameras by 2026 - Ming-Chi Kuo

According to analyst Min-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to begin mass production of new "AirPods with camera modules" by 2026. Earlier, the resource Bloomberg reported on such plans. However, at that time, it was only about one of the form factor ideas of wearable devices.

Now, Kuo claims that these new AirPods headphones will have an infrared camera, similar to the one used as part of the Face ID module on the iPhone and iPad. Apple's goal is for the camera-equipped AirPods to integrate with Vision Pro and future Apple Vision headsets.

"It is expected that the new AirPods will be used with Vision Pro and future Apple headsets to enhance the user experience of spatial audio and strengthen the ecosystem of spatial computing. For example, when a user watches a video using Vision Pro and wears these new AirPods, if the user turns their head to look in a certain direction, the sound source in that direction can be emphasized to enhance the spatial audio/computing experience."

In addition, the infrared camera on the AirPods will be able to detect changes in the surrounding environment, "potentially allowing for gesture control in the air to improve human-device interaction."

Kuo notes that Foxconn is the "supplier of the new product for the IR camera that will be used with AirPods." It is reported that Foxconn plans to produce 18-20 million units per year, or about 10 million pairs of AirPods.

Source: 9to5mac