AirPods and Apple Watch Models to Get Tiny AI Cameras in 2027

Apple plans to add tiny cameras to AirPods and Apple Watch models in 2027 that will embed Apple Intelligence in the devices, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

airpods pro purple
The cameras are expected to scan the environment and describe objects, similar to the Visual Intelligence feature on newer iPhones. Apple is also working on smart glasses that include cameras, microphones, and integrated AI, much like the Ray-Bans from Meta. The glasses are also expected by 2027, according to Gurman.

Apple is developing a new chip for the smart glasses, and it is said to be based on chips that are used in the Apple Watch, so there's likely to be AI feature crossover across the devices.

The cameras could be infrared sensors. In a June 2024 blog post, Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple planned to mass produce new AirPods with infrared cameras by 2026. The infrared cameras could potentially enable "in-air gesture control" as well, allowing for device interaction with hand movements, according to Kuo.

Given Kuo's 2026 mass production timeframe, we could potentially see the new AirPods with infrared cameras launch in 2026 or 2027.

Related Forums: AirPods, Apple Watch

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Top Rated Comments

SanderEvers Avatar
19 weeks ago
I do not want headphones / inears / watches with camera's.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Kottu Avatar
19 weeks ago
The technology will be so advanced that new airpods can be used even in Medical sector. Instead of using uncomfortable endoscopy cameras, patients can just swallow a pair of Airpods to scan entire digestive system!
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fatTribble Avatar
19 weeks ago
Am I the only one who is skeptical?

Not only does this sound impractical, it sounds undesirable — at least to me. ??‍♂️
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Fuzzball84 Avatar
19 weeks ago
Eventually there will be cameras and microphones on all devices everywhere. Where will the privacy be?

How would I know if someone is recording video or voice as I’m talking to them? What permission would they have to keep that?

This always reminds me of the Meta glasses commercial when the guy turns up at the party wearing them. Everyone pleased to see him.

In reality people would be cautious and uncomfortable. Why are you wearing glasses with cameras at a social gathering. When and what are you recording. How would you feel if someone was stood there with iPhone camera pointing at you all night at this gathering. Then it finding its way onto social media and everything you said.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Macusercom Avatar
19 weeks ago
AirPods Pro camera taking an ear-fie:





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Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Ultramove69 Avatar
19 weeks ago
Oh good what we all need, more cameras.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)