The next AirPods may feature cameras, but not for taking pictures
By ForGeeks Apple could be preparing a major update for the next generation of its AirPods. A recent rumor hints at equipping the headphones with cameras. However, there’s a twist – they won’t be used for taking photos. Instead, users will get new features.
Infrared Sensors and Health Opportunities
This information comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest issue of PowerOn. According to the source, Apple plans to integrate sensors into the AirPods, which are expected to be infrared (IR). Unlike conventional cameras, they are not designed to capture images.
They’re not designed to capture images.
Although Gurman didn’t reveal details, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously reported that these sensors could be used to track health metrics. This idea isn’t new – similar rumors were floating around as recently as last year. It’s possible the sensors could also improve spatial audio, making the sound more expansive and adaptive to the surroundings.
Sensors could also improve spatial audio, making the sound more expansive and adaptive to the surroundings.
Gesture control and new interaction options
Besides audio and health improvements, infrared sensors could open the door to new control features. Apple could possibly introduce gesture control, which could track hand movements and translate them into commands.
When to expect a new release
If the rumors are confirmed, mass production of these updated AirPods won’t begin until 2026 at the earliest, and a release could come in late 2026 or early 2027. But for now, it’s speculation and should be treated with a degree of skepticism.
