Apple seems to be working on new AirPods with in-built cameras, with mass production proposed for 2026. According to noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on new AirPods with built-in camera modules.
In a post on Medium, Kuo explained that Apple plans to mass-produce new AirPods with integrated IR camera modules by 2026. These IR cameras will apparently be similar to the iPhone’s Face ID receiver.
Is Apple working on new AirPods?
Ming-Chi Kuo, who is an analyst known for predicting Apple’s strategies, highlighted that the tech giant is likely to make use of infra-red cameras. The move is expected to facilitate the syncing of advanced features across Apple’s ecosystem. It is believed that the proposed AirPods can help to upgrade the connectivity with its Vision Pro and upcoming Apple Vision headsets.
As reported by MacRumors, the aim of bringing IR cameras on AirPods is related to Apple Vision Pro and future headsets. The tech company is expected to enhance the spatial computing and audio experience. The IR cameras can detect environmental image changes, facilitating a broader range of gestures to improve user interaction. Additionally, the infrared sensor used in the AirPods might perceive the environmental changes. This will eventually be able to support Air Gestures.
“For example, if a user watches a video using Apple Vision Pro and the new AirPods and turns their head to look in a specific direction, the sound source in that direction can be emphasised to enhance the spatial audio/computing experience,” Ming-Chi Kuo explained in an official blog.
Other updates
According to reports, Foxconn is expected to be the supplier of the new IR component. The Taiwanese electronics manufacturer is preparing to provide enough parts for about 10 million AirPods initially.
However, it is not clear which AirPods model is likely to get the feature first. It looks like Kuo has suggested that the AirPods Pro might get the feature first since they already offer ‘lossless audio exclusively with the Vision Pro.’
This development seems to come from earlier reports from Bloomberg. Initially, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman seems to have hinted at Apple’s explorations into wearable form factors beyond AirPods. Reportedly, this might be including smart glasses and a smart ring, as well as future iterations of the Apple Watch.
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