Apple is reportedly planning to release a new version of its AirPods with built-in cameras by 2027, according to a report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The report, published on Tuesday, suggests the company is exploring the integration of tiny cameras into the earbuds to enhance its artificial intelligence features.
The camera-equipped AirPods are expected to arrive around late 2027, though the timeline could shift. The project is still in early development, and Apple has not publicly confirmed the plans. The cameras would likely be used for visual data collection to support AI functions, such as object recognition or augmented reality applications.
This move aligns with Apple's broader push into AI and spatial computing, following the launch of the Vision Pro headset. However, the company faces challenges in miniaturizing camera technology for a small form factor like earbuds, as well as addressing privacy concerns related to wearable cameras.
As of now, no official announcement has been made by Apple, and the report remains unconfirmed by the company. The information is based solely on Gurman's sources, who are familiar with the matter.